Earthquake Action Plan: What to Do

During any natural disaster, it's important to have a plan in place to stay safe and know what resources are available. In this activity, students will create an action plan for what someone should do if they are in an earthquake, or other natural disaster. The example above and the instructions specify earthquake, but you can update the instructions accordingly.

Being stuck in an earthquake can be a terrifying experience that can cause panic. It is important to have an action plan so you know what to do in the event an earthquake hits.

Experts recommend that, if you're inside, you don't leave the building until the shaking stops. Try to get as close to the ground as possible. When you are on your knees, cover your head and neck with your hands to protect yourself from anything falling. You should place yourself away from outside walls, windows, shelves, or anything else that can fall on you. If possible, try to hide under a sturdy desk or table. If you are in bed, you should stay there and cover your head with a pillow. If you are outside, find a place that is away from buildings, trees, or utility cables. If you are driving, stop as quickly as possible away from anything that could fall. Make sure you stay inside your car.

After an earthquake has finished, try to move to open ground if there is a safe and clear exit. If you are trapped, don’t move around; if you have your cell phone, call or text for help. Assist others if you can and make sure you monitor local TV news and radio for updates. After earthquakes, there are often aftershocks, so be prepared to drop and cover if one happens.

Check out https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes for more information.

Alternatively, have your students make visual action plans for other natural disasters such as a hurricane or volcanic eruption.

Student Instructions

Create a narrative storyboard explaining what you should do during an earthquake.

1. Click "Start Assignment".
2. Use a series of scenes, characters, props, shapes and Textables to create a narrative storyboard detailing what you should do (or should not do) during an Earthquake.