Collapsing buildings?

Question

i live in a active earthquake area. After what i saw the earthquake in China. I wanted to come up with a plan of escape, so if it does happen(hopefully not) me and my loved ones will have a better chance of surviving.

I live on the 6th floor of a 7 floor apartment building. I was thinking if building collapse or anything, would it make more sense that i run up to the roof during an earthquake rather than running down?

Answer 1

Just pray against it! I dont believe that is in the realm of any of anyman's knowledge. Earth quake can eropt from an unpredictable area.

Safe living.

Answer 2

You may not have time to move very far, and theres a chance that youll get caught in a bad place on your way there if it starts collapsing while you're en route.  Best bet is to choose which room in your appartment is safest to stay in should an earthquake occur.  A room with no windows is ideal due to the amount of flying glass which might come your way, and some bulky objects like a filing cabinet and a desk will help as well.  Crouch beside the big objects so that if the roof collapses a safe 'void' will be created around you from where you can be rescued.  Tap on a pipe or something to attract attention, and avoid shouting - this will waste energy and you'll inhale a lot of dust.

Edit: Looking at bits from the FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) website, it looks like you're safer staying inside, take a look at the various info:

"Stay inside until shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Research has shown that most injuries occur when people inside buildings attempt to move to a different location inside the building or try to leave."

"The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits, and alongside exterior walls."

"Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass, and falling objects."