It depends on where you live and the kind of earthquakes that occur there. I spent a couple of years in Chile, where deep earthquakes are common. Anything belo

It depends on where you live and the kind of earthquakes that occur there. I spent a couple of years in Chile, where deep earthquakes are common. Anything below magnitude 5 was often not even noticeable. Magnitude 5 earthquakes happened a few times a year in the area, and they were business as usual. The ground shook a little, there was some noise, and tall buildings were swaying afterwards. I experienced one magnitude 6 earthquake, which was a bit scary, but it didn't do any noticeable damage and the locals didn't seem to care. Now I live in California, where earthquakes are rarer and more shallow. Magnitude 4 is already noticeable, and I guess magnitude 5 could do some local damage. The biggest immediate danger is usually getting hit by flying/falling debris. Outdoors, you should get away from trees, power lines, traffic signs, buildings, etc. Indoors, you should avoid windows and tall furniture such as bookshelves, and maybe take shelter under a sturdy table or in a doorway.