Though it is estimated④ that about 500,000 earthquakes occur each year,only 100 of them cause damage!However,an earthquake could occur any time of the day or night so it pays to be prepared if you are unfortunately caught in the middle of one.  If you are indoors,stay indoors unless you are in the ground floor where you can easily run outside.The best thing to do if you are indoors is hide under a strong piece of furniture⑤ like a bed or desk.Do not try to head for the stairway if you are living in an upper storey,as the stairways may collapse⑥.