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.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a narrative storyboard explaining what you should do during an earthquake.
Simulate real earthquake scenarios with your students to help them remember safety steps and respond calmly during an actual emergency. Practice builds confidence and ensures everyone knows their role.
Let students know why practicing is important, and review expectations for safe, respectful behavior during the drill. Clear communication helps students take the activity seriously and reduces anxiety.
Show students how to drop to their knees, cover their head and neck under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on until the shaking stops. Modeling proper actions helps students remember what to do in a real earthquake.
Start the drill with a signal, then prompt students to drop, cover, and hold on. Walk around to observe and offer guidance. Supervision ensures everyone is practicing safely and correctly.
Gather students afterward to reflect on the drill, highlight successes, and address any mistakes. Open discussion reinforces safety habits and lets students ask questions.
During an earthquake at school, students should drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and protect their head and neck with their arms. Stay away from windows, shelves, and anything that could fall. Wait until the shaking stops before moving.
Teachers can create an earthquake action plan by outlining safety steps, designating safe spots in the classroom, practicing drills, and teaching students how to drop, cover, and hold on. Including visual storyboards and regular review can reinforce preparedness.
The best safety tips for students during an earthquake include: stay indoors until the shaking stops, move away from windows and tall furniture, take cover under sturdy furniture, protect your head and neck, and follow your teacher’s instructions.
If you are trapped after an earthquake, stay calm, avoid moving around, and use your cell phone to call or text for help if possible. Make noise to signal rescuers and conserve energy while waiting for assistance.
Students can make a visual action plan by creating a narrative storyboard with scenes and characters that show step-by-step actions to take during a natural disaster. Use drawings, props, and captions to illustrate safety procedures clearly.