# AI advises running outside during an earthquake to avoid building collapse (falling debris and structural collapse risk)

- **ID:** `disaster/earthquake-run-outside-during-shaking`
- **Domain:** disaster
- **Category:** life_threatening
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 85%

## Root Cause

Running outside during strong shaking exposes people to falling glass, masonry, and building facades; the exit path is often blocked by debris, and the collapse zone extends well beyond the building footprint.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| USGS ShakeAlert (2023) | active | — | — |
| FEMA P-1000 (2023) | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Drop, Cover, and Hold On: drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until shaking stops.** (90% success)
   ```
   Drop, Cover, and Hold On: drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until shaking stops.
   ```
2. **If no table is available, crouch against an interior wall away from windows, mirrors, and heavy furniture. Cover your head with your arms.** (85% success)
   ```
   If no table is available, crouch against an interior wall away from windows, mirrors, and heavy furniture. Cover your head with your arms.
   ```
3. **After the shaking stops, evacuate calmly using the stairs, checking for hazards. Do not use elevators.** (80% success)
   ```
   After the shaking stops, evacuate calmly using the stairs, checking for hazards. Do not use elevators.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **Running to the nearest exit as soon as shaking starts** — The exit path may be blocked by falling ceilings or debris; the shaking makes it impossible to maintain balance, and the building facade collapses outward (90% fail)
- **Using a fire escape or stairwell to run down quickly** — Stairwells are not earthquake-proof and may collapse or fill with debris; fire escapes are often damaged by the shaking (80% fail)
- **Waiting for a lull in shaking to dash outside** — Aftershocks can occur within seconds; the initial shaking may not be the strongest, and the collapse may happen during the lull (70% fail)