During a major earthquake, you may hear a roaring or rumbling sound that gradually gets louder. You may feel a rolling sensation that starts out gently and within a second or two grows violent, or you may first be jarred by a violent jolt. A second or two later, you may feel shaking and find it difficult to stand up or move from one room to another.

The key to surviving an earthquake and lowering your risk of injury is in planning, preparing and practicing what you and your family wil...