The first thing to do is remain calm.

You must be able to think clearly even though the ground has just stopped shaking and life as you know it has changed. 

Step 1: Do NOT dial 9-1-1. If there is an earthquake, everyone else will know that as well. The city's emergency services are likely to be tapped out within one minute of a major earthquake. That means help may not be on the way to you for some time. You need to be able to take care of yourself.

Step 2: Assess your situation. Start with yourself. Are you injured? Can you move? If you can, then check to see about others in your family, or if you're at work, check your coworkers. If you determine you have a FIRE or MEDICAL emergency, then dial 9-1-1.

Step 3: Do NOT run outside. The outside of a building is the most dangerous place to be. Many buildings have architectural elements on the facade - things like awnings, decorative brick work and shutters. These are the first things to come tumbling down in an earthquake. Being outside near buildings is often more dangerous than being inside. 

Step 4: No matter where you are, the minute the earth stops moving, look down at your feet. Are you wearing shoes? If not, determine how to get a pair of shoes as soon as possible. Everything in your office and home has just been violently shaken. Chances are things have fallen on the floor and broken. Walking through that debris barefoot is not a good idea. Emergency rooms after even minor earthquakes, are often overwhelmed with people who arrive with bad cuts on their feet.

Step 5: If you have determined you have a FIRE or MEDICAL emergency, when you dial 9-1-1, tell the operator what the emergency is. If you are in the city of Los Angeles, you'll be connected to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Every operator is an active firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician. They may be able to provide lifesaving instructions to you.

Step 6: Tell the operator where you are. You'll need to think about this. Don't say, "I'm on Second Street." Instead, tell the operator, "I'm in downtown Los Angeles, on Second Street near Hill. If you don't know how to communicate where you are, the operator will have trouble getting medical resources to you promptly.

Step 7: Listen carefully to the operator. They may tell you to stay on the phone. They may ask you about the emergency. Answer these questions carefully. Being calm and responding to each question could save a life, even your own. 

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