【Explained by a Former Firefighter】Earthquake Aftershocks: How to Stay Safe Indoors

Many people survive the main earthquake, only to be injured or killed during aftershocks. The danger does not end when the shaking stops. As a former firefighter who has entered buildings during repeated aftershocks, I explain how to stay safe indoors when the ground keeps moving—and why most injuries happen after the first quake.

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■① Why Aftershocks Are More Dangerous Than People Expect

Aftershocks cause injuries because:

• Structures are already weakened
• Furniture has shifted and become unstable
• People move too early and too much
• Fatigue reduces judgment

Many secondary injuries happen during cleanup or movement.

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■② The Most Dangerous Mistake: Rushing to Move Around

People get hurt because they:

• Stand up immediately
• Walk barefoot on broken glass
• Try to “check damage” too soon

As a firefighter, I treated many injuries caused by unnecessary movement.

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■③ Choosing the Safest Indoor Position

If aftershocks continue:

• Stay away from windows and shelves
• Use sturdy furniture as cover
• Protect your head and neck
• Stay low and stable

Firefighters often find survivors who stayed put in safe positions.

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■④ Why Doorways and Hallways Are Often Unsafe

Common advice is outdated:

• Doorways are not structurally stronger
• Hallways concentrate falling objects
• Exits may collapse or block

Modern indoor safety is about space, not frames.

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■⑤ Managing Darkness and Debris After the Main Quake

Visibility is critical:

• Use flashlights, not candles
• Wear shoes immediately
• Avoid touching fallen wires or objects

Most aftershock injuries are cuts, falls, and head impacts.

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■⑥ Knowing When It Is Safe to Exit the Building

Leaving is necessary only when:

• Structural damage is obvious
• Fire or gas risk exists
• Authorities instruct evacuation

As a firefighter, I saw people injured by leaving safe buildings unnecessarily.

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■⑦ Mental Control During Repeated Shaking

Fear increases risk:

• Expect more aftershocks
• Breathe slowly and stay seated
• Focus on simple actions only

Calm behavior prevents impulsive movement.

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■⑧ Lessons From Real Aftershock Responses

From firefighter experience:

• Staying indoors was often safer
• Movement caused most injuries
• Prepared homes reduced emergency calls

Aftershocks reward patience, not speed.

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■Summary｜Aftershocks Punish Unnecessary Movement

The main earthquake is only the beginning. Aftershocks turn unsafe movement into injury.

Conclusion:
As a former firefighter who has responded during active aftershock periods, I can say clearly that most injuries happen after the main quake. People who stay put, protect their heads, manage darkness, and move only when necessary survive. During aftershocks, stillness is often the safest action.