Earthquake Safety

Scholastic ACTION: May 10, 2010

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DIRECTIONS: In the article "On Shaky Ground," you read about two recent earthquakes. You also learned how earthquakes happen. Read the passage below about earthquake safety. Then test your understanding by clicking the bubble next to the best answer for each question.

TEACHERS: Download a printable version of this quiz.

Do you know if your state is at risk for earthquakes? If you live on the West Coast, or in Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, or Wyoming, your state is at very high risk for earthquakes.

What should you do when an earthquake hits? Don't just stand there. Take cover under a table and hold on to it until the shaking stops. If there isn't a table nearby, cover your face and head with your arms. Crouch in a corner.

If you are outdoors, move away from buildings, streetlights, and power lines. Stay in the open until the shaking stops.

If you are trapped during a quake, don't scream for help right away. Wait until you know someone can hear you. Screaming can allow dangerous dust to enter your lungs.

For more information, visit FEMA.gov, the United States government's Web site about disaster safety.

1

Which of the following states is at high risk for earthquakes?

1. New York
2. Florida
3. Montana
4. Louisiana

2

What is a good shelter during an earthquake?

1. under a table
2. a couch cushion
3. a telephone pole
4. under a window

3

If you are outside during an earthquake, you should ____________.

1. run into the nearest building
2. crawl under a parked car
3. move away from buildings, power lines, and streetlights
4. hold on to a telephone pole

4

Why is it bad to scream for help right away?

1. People will laugh at you.
2. Screaming could cause another earthquake.
3. Screaming can allow dust to damage your lungs.
4. Screaming will upset you more.