What should you do if you are outside during an earthquake?

Moving to an open area during an earthquake is a prudent choice because it minimizes the risk of injury from falling debris, which is a significant hazard during seismic activity. When you are in an open space away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and utility wires, you reduce your exposure to potential dangers that accompany earthquakes, such as collapsing structures or shattered glass.

Finding cover under a tree, for instance, is unsafe because branches can fall, posing a risk of injury. Similarly, seeking shelter under a gas station canopy is also ill-advised since the canopy could collapse, and you would be close to gasoline or other hazardous materials. Running to the nearest building might seem like a logical step, but it actually increases the risk of being caught by falling debris as the building may not be structurally sound during the quake. Thus, choosing to move to an open area provides the safest refuge until the shaking stops and you can assess your surroundings.