Yesterday was the 2025 Great Southeast ShakeOut – October 16, an event where millions of people worldwide participated in earthquake drills at work, school, or home! Below are their instructions of what to do if you are caught in a quake.
But first, my spouse asked a good question not covered by the instructions so I asked ChatGPT. Here’s the answer from AI.
Chat history
You said:
What should you do if you are driving in a car and an earthquake hits?
ChatGPT said:
If you’re driving and an earthquake occurs, the safest approach is to stay calm and stay inside the vehicle. Here’s what to do step by step:
🚗 While the ground is shaking
- Pull over safely
- Move to the shoulder or curb, away from overpasses, bridges, power lines, tall buildings, trees, or signs that could fall.
- Stop as quickly and safely as possible.
- Stay in the car
- Set the parking brake and keep your seatbelt fastened.
- The vehicle’s suspension will absorb much of the shaking and offer protection from falling debris.
- Do NOT stop on or under:
- Bridges or overpasses (they can collapse)
- Power lines or trees
- Tunnels or steep slopes
🌎 When the shaking stops
- Check your surroundings
- Watch for fallen power lines, cracks in the road, or damaged bridges.
- Avoid driving on damaged roads.
- Turn on the radio
- Listen to emergency broadcasts for updates and instructions.
- Drive cautiously
- Aftershocks may occur.
- Traffic lights may be out, and emergency vehicles may need to pass.
- If you’re in a coastal area, be aware of tsunami warnings and move to higher ground immediately if instructed.
Would you like me to tailor this to a specific region (e.g., California vs. Japan) or setting (urban vs. rural)? The best advice can vary slightly depending on local terrain and infrastructure.
ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check important info.
AI Conversations 
Leave a comment