Myanmar, Thailand earthquake: Follow these crucial do's and don'ts to keep yourself safe

Myanmar was jolted early on March 28 by a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake, followed by a 6.4 aftershock just minutes later, according to the US Geological Survey. The tremors were felt across Thailand and parts of southern China. In Bangkok, panic swept through the capital as a high-rise building collapsed, killing one and trapping an unknown number of people. Many other buildings in the city were reported damaged, prompting a swift emergency response.

For most people, earthquakes strike without warning — leaving little time to react. While there’s no way to predict when the next one might hit, knowing how to protect yourself in the moment can save lives. Here’s a crucial refresher from NDMA on what to do during an earthquake.

If you’re indoors:

• Drop, cover, and hold on. Get to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.
• If no shelter is nearby, protect your head and face with your arms and crouch in an inside corner.
• Stay away from windows, glass, exterior walls, and anything that could fall — like shelves or light fixtures.
• If in bed, stay there. Shield your head with a pillow unless under a heavy fixture — then move carefully to a safer spot.
• Use doorways only if they’re close and structurally strong.
• Stay indoors until the shaking completely stops. Most injuries occur when people try to move around or exit during a quake.
• Expect possible power outages or triggered fire alarms and sprinklers.

If you’re outdoors:

• Stay put, but move away from anything that might collapse—buildings, trees, poles, and wires.
• Remain in open space until the shaking ends. Many injuries happen near exterior walls or exits due to falling debris.

If you’re in a vehicle:

• Pull over as soon as it’s safe. Avoid stopping under overpasses, power lines, or near buildings.

• Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.

• Drive with caution afterward, steering clear of damaged roads and bridges.

If trapped under debris:

• Don’t light matches or stir up dust.
• Cover your mouth with clothing.
• Signal for help by tapping or using a whistle. Shout only if absolutely necessary, as it can cause dust inhalation.

Earthquakes can strike fast but staying calm and knowing what to do can make all the difference.