If an earthquake were to suddenly happen where you were at, would you know what to do?

Having lived for the last 20+ years on the West Coast.... yep! I lived in Santa Cruz, CA when that area was struck by the 7.1 Loma Prieta quake. I'd say I had moderate knowledge and preparations at the time, but ever since, I've been much more prepared.

Nothing like actually experiencing a natural disaster to get an education on what to do.

I would go outside and stand in my front yard until it ended.

Here in New Zealand we experience a lot of earthquakes every year and most people know what to do. Plenty of common sense advice really, like don't run outside during one, keeping away from windows or any loose furniture, duck under a table or under a door frame. All schools and most workplaces have earthquake procedures in place and children have regular drills.

I guess if you have never experienced one before it can be intimidating but the best advice is don't run outside or there is a strong possibility you will be struck by falling masonry. Door lintels are usually the safest point to ride it out, then get out.

Interesting AngelTrader, I always wondered if the door lintel thing was really true! I've lived in the Vancouver (Canada) area for 9 years so I'm hoping to be ready when we get our next!

No, I would not know what to do and I would totally freak out! I live in SE Georgia (USA) and we do not have earthquakes here that are big enough to shake the building. Even the New Madrid quake of 1811-12 was barely felt here, and that was the last big one to affect this area.

I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.