r/interesting • u/HomeNowWTF • 22d ago

NATURE Experiencing an earthquake in an airport

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u/Frequent-Coyote-8108 22d ago

Word to the wise:

In an earthquake, if you're RIGHT near an exit, get outside.

Otherwise, just find something structural to hold up near--and preferably a table or something to get under.

DO NOT, under any circumstances, run through a building to get outside.

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u/eruesuji 21d ago

I’ve lived in earthquake-prone Japan the last 30 years. One of the first things we’re taught during earthquake drills, which companies, schools, etc. do annually, is DON’T run outside of a building. Many buildings have facade elements that may dislodge and fall, windows may be popping out from above, telephone lines may be falling, etc. What is optimal to do is highly dependent on one’s exact surroundings, but dashing outside as a first reaction is exactly what we’re taught NOT to do.

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u/post_it1 21d ago

Agree - in New Zealand we shelter in place. People have been killed by falling masonry trying to leave buildings in earthquakes here. You should shelter under a table or at a stretch, a doorway. If you’re in bed, shelter on the floor next to your bed. Adopt the “turtle” pose, curled in a ball face down with your hands covering your neck

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u/No-Meaning-8498 20d ago

They no longer recommend getting in a doorway