US Embassy issues earthquake safety guide for citizens in Turkey

WISE NEWS PRESS / ANKARA, TURKEY — DEC. 31, 2025

The United States Embassy in Turkey has issued a comprehensive earthquake information guide for its citizens, providing essential safety protocols to minimize risks during and after seismic activity.

In a security notice shared via its official social media channels, the Embassy outlined critical emergency procedures for both indoor and outdoor settings. The guide emphasizes the internationally recognized "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" protocol while alerting travelers to potential infrastructure damage that could severely impact communication and transportation networks across the country.

Indoor Safety: The "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" Protocol

The Embassy advises individuals inside buildings to remain indoors unless they are certain that exiting is safe. To prevent injuries, the notice highlights three fundamental steps:

• Drop: Get down on your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over.

  
  

• Cover: Protect your head and neck with your arms; if possible, seek shelter under a sturdy table or desk.

  
  

• Hold On: If under a piece of furniture, hold on firmly and be prepared to move with it. The advisory also warns against using elevators and instructs immediate evacuation if the smell of gas is detected.

Outdoor Precautions and Driver Safety

For those caught outdoors during an earthquake, the Embassy recommends moving to open areas away from buildings, power lines, trees, and streetlights. Drivers are urged to pull over to a safe location away from traffic and avoid stopping under or on bridges, overpasses, or tunnels.

Travel Preparedness and STEP Enrollment

The security notice points out that significant seismic events may damage roads and bridges, potentially making access to airports difficult. Citizens are advised to be prepared to shelter in place for several days. Furthermore, the Embassy recommends maintaining valid travel insurance for unexpected costs and encourages all US citizens to enroll in the "Smart Traveler Enrollment Program" (STEP) to receive the most current security and safety updates directly from the Department of State.

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