What to do when an earthquake strikes

The recent quakes in Johor have rattled residents, serving as a stark reminder that the earth’s movements can strike without warning.

Whether you are at home, in school, at work, or on the road, knowing what to do when the ground begins to shake can protect you and your loved ones from serious harm.

According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), Johor was shaken by a 4.1-magnitude earthquake on Aug 24 at 6.13am.

The epicentre was recorded at 2.5 degrees north and 102.8 degrees east, with a depth of 10 kilometres, located 5 kilometres west of Segamat.

A direct hit to the head can cause serious trauma, unconsciousness, or worse, which is why safety experts consistently emphasise shielding this part of the body above all else. Photo for illustrative purposes only. Photo source: Canva.

Later that morning, MetMalaysia reported another mild quake at around 9am, this time measuring 2.8 magnitude, 28 kilometres north-west of Kluang.

Although earthquakes in Malaysia are generally mild, the recent incidents highlight the importance of being prepared.

Here are eight important safety steps to remember when an earthquake strikes:

1. Drop, cover, and hold on

The very first thing you should do when the ground starts to shake is to protect yourself from falling objects and collapsing structures. Do not attempt to run outdoors during the tremors, as this often increases the risk of injury. Instead, drop down to your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over, then take cover under the sturdiest piece of furniture available, such as a table or desk. If no shelter is nearby, crouch down close to an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms, a bag, or a cushion to shield yourself from debris.

2. Stay indoors if you are inside

One of the most common mistakes people make during an earthquake is rushing outside the moment the shaking begins. While the instinct to flee is natural, running out of a building during tremors can put you directly in harm’s way. The safest action is to remain where you are until the shaking fully stops. By staying indoors and taking protective cover, you give yourself the highest chance of avoiding serious injuries caused by debris or sudden collapses outdoors.

3. Stay away from windows and tall furniture

Tall and heavy furniture such as bookshelves, wardrobes, cabinets and even refrigerators can also become life-threatening during strong shaking. To stay safe, quickly identify and move towards areas of the room that are less cluttered and further away from these hazards.

4. Protect your head and neck

A direct hit to the head can cause serious trauma, unconsciousness, or worse, which is why safety experts consistently emphasise shielding this part of the body above all else. Simply crouch low, tuck your head down, and use your arms and hands to cover the back of your head and neck as firmly as possible.

5. Do not use lifts

During an earthquake, the electricity supply can be disrupted suddenly, and lifts may stop working between floors, trapping occupants inside. Therefore, always use the stairs instead of lifts when evacuating a building. Choosing the stairs may take longer, but it is far safer and could prevent you from being trapped in a confined, high-risk space.

6. Move to an open space

When the ground starts shaking and you are already outside, your priority should be to move quickly and calmly to the nearest open area. Stay as far away as possible from buildings, walls, shopfronts and other structures, as parts of these can break off and fall during an earthquake. Open spaces reduce the risk of falling debris and give you more time to assess your surroundings safely.

7. Pull over safely if you are driving

If an earthquake strikes while you are driving, the sudden tremors may feel like a tyre blowout or engine failure, but it is crucial to recognise what is happening and respond calmly. Slow down gradually and pull your vehicle over to the side of the road as safely as possible. Choose a clear spot away from bridges, tunnels, flyovers, tall buildings, trees, or power lines, as these structures are at risk of collapse or damage during strong shaking.

8. Be prepared for aftershocks

It is important to be emotionally and mentally prepared for aftershocks. Many people assume that once the ground settles, the danger is over. This false sense of security often leads to injuries when the next jolt strikes. Treat every aftershock with the same seriousness as the main quake: crouch down, protect your head and neck and move to a safe location if necessary.

Being informed and prepared is the best defence against natural disasters. The Johor earthquakes serve as a reminder that even mild tremors require awareness and readiness and that taking the right actions at the right time can significantly reduce harm.