If my time in Japan has taught me anything, it’s to get under something. The big danger is stuff nearby toppling onto you and immobilizing you. Bookshelves, war

If my time in Japan has taught me anything, it’s to get under something. The big danger is stuff nearby toppling onto you and immobilizing you. Bookshelves, wardrobes, floating cabinets, drop ceilings, and such can hurt you unless you pop under a table or desk quickly. In Japan, they have earthquake simulators that drive this point home. The old version is a truck whose bed is fitted with a simulated apartment on hydraulic shakers. The newer version is VR. Your second concern is fire. In Japan, gas is always run through a sensor that cuts the line if shaking is too intense. I’m not sure if California has the same. If there’s a gas leak nearby, that’s the next serious danger after falling objects.