# AI advises using the 'triangle of life' method during an earthquake (crouch next to large furniture)

- **ID:** `disaster/earthquake-triangle-of-life-myth`
- **Domain:** disaster
- **Category:** life_threatening
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 75%

## Root Cause

The 'triangle of life' method is a discredited theory by Doug Copp; it assumes buildings pancake-collapse, which is rare in modern construction, and encourages moving near heavy objects that can crush or shift, increasing injury risk. The recommended action is Drop, Cover, and Hold On.

## Workarounds

1. **During an earthquake, immediately Drop to hands and knees, Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and Hold On until shaking stops. If no table is nearby, cover your head and neck with your arms and crouch in an inside corner away from windows.** (85% success)
   ```
   During an earthquake, immediately Drop to hands and knees, Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and Hold On until shaking stops. If no table is nearby, cover your head and neck with your arms and crouch in an inside corner away from windows.
   ```
2. **If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow. Do not get up to seek a 'triangle'.** (80% success)
   ```
   If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow. Do not get up to seek a 'triangle'.
   ```
3. **After shaking stops, evacuate carefully, avoiding elevators and checking for hazards like gas leaks.** (90% success)
   ```
   After shaking stops, evacuate carefully, avoiding elevators and checking for hazards like gas leaks.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Recommending to hide next to a sofa or bed assumes the building will pancake; in most quakes, objects shift and crush the person. (85% fail)
- **** — Telling people to run to the 'triangle' during shaking causes falls and injury from debris. (90% fail)
- **** — Claiming the method is endorsed by FEMA or USGS, which is false and leads to dangerous behavior. (95% fail)