Check beforehand whether your country of residence has an official site with reliable information in regards to natural disasters.

• are earthquakes common in your country of living?
• what are the most common areas impacted?
• do the government authorities regularly organize earthquake drills?

Best things to do: preparation and/or in case of an earthquake

BEFORE:

• know the earthquake hazards in the area
• be conscious of the structural integrity of the house
• set up furniture and appliances in a way that they will not topple when there is a strong ground shaking
• prepare emergency bag/kit for each member of the family
• participate in earthquake drills

DURING:

• stay calm, do not panic
• stay indoors if you are already within a structurally sound building or home
  • if possible, quickly open a door for exit
  • duck under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on to it, or protect your head with your arms
  • stay away from glass windows, shelves, cabinets, and other heavy objects
  • beware of falling objects. Be alert and keep your eyes open
• if you are outside, move to an open area
  • stay away from trees, power lines, posts, and concrete structures
  • move away from steep slopes which may be affected by landslides
  • if near the shore and feeling an earthquake, especially a strong one, quickly move to higher grounds in anticipation of possible tsunamis
• if you are in a moving vehicle: stop and get out: do not attempt to cross bridges, overpasses and flyovers which may have been damaged

AFTER

• after the earthquake: take the fastest and safest way out of the building; one should not use elevators, enter damaged buildings, or use telephones unless necessary