What to do in an earthquake?Earthquakes are one of the most deadly natural disasters in the world. They happen more frequently than you would expect.In the 24 hours after you read this, 400 to 500 earthquakes will shake the earth. You wont notice most of them because you live in a relatively stable (相對穩(wěn)定) area or the quake is too far away or because the quake will be too small to notice.Earthquakes are caused by sudden breaks in rock masses (巖層) deep in the earth. Rock masses are always under very high pressure. If the pressure in a certain area become too much and the rock masses break, an earthquake happens. But exactly when the rock masses reach the breaking point is a mystery.China is located on the Eurasia plate (板塊), where earthquakes happen frequently due to the earths plates knocking against each other. Up to 17,139 earthquakes have taken place in China in the past 44 years, according to scientific research.Dos and Donts During the quake1. If you are indoors, dont run out of the building in a hurry. Take cover under strong furniture, like tables, or stand against an inside wall. If you are in bed, hold on, stay there and protect your head with a pillow (枕頭).2. Remember “Drop, Cover and Hold on (蹲下、躲好、全身緊繃！)” Stay indoors until the shaking stops and youre sure its safe to go out. 3. Never take an elevator.4. If you are outside, find a clear spot away from buildings, trees and power lines. 5. Drop to the ground until the shaking stops. 6. If you are in a car, slow down and drive to a clear place away from building, trees and power lines. Dont stop on overpasses (高架橋), underpasses (涵洞) or bridges. Stay inside the car until the shaking stops. 7. Dont try to hold your pet during a quake. Animals want to hide when their safety is threatened. If you get in their way, even the nicest pets may hurt you. After the quake1. Expect aftershocks (余震). Each time you feel one, "Drop, Cover and Hold on"! 2. Check yourself for injuries. Protect yourself by wearing long pants, a long-sleeved (長袖的) shirt, sturdy (結(jié)實的) shoes and gloves. 3. Listen to a radio, if possible, for the latest emergency information. 4. Check others for injuries. Give first aid when needed. Do not move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. 5. Remember to help neighbors who may require special help - children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. 6. Inspect your home for damage. Get everyone outside if your home is unsafe. 7. Check your telephone to see if it still works. Use the telephone only for emergencies. 8. Check for gas leaks (泄漏). If you smell gas, open a window and leave the building.