I remember my first earthquake in 1952 after we moved to California from Utah in 1950. It was centered in Techachapi by Bakersfield out in the desert 100 miles north of Los Angeles with a magnitude of 7.7. It was strong. My mom and I were sleeping in our small apartment in Lawndale when everything started shaking. I didn't know what was happening. We both jumped out of bed and huddled together in the frame of the doorway until the shaking stopped. Not sure how long it lasted and then there were about 50 aftershocks of a magnitude of 5 or more. Seven lives were lost and 50 million dollars of destruction near the epicenter.
After living in Utah for many years, this earthquake was the first one I've felt though I know we have faults running all across Utah. We even have earthquake insurance. The best place to hide I've read is under something strong like a table or by the side of your bed. Watch out for shattered glass and any downed electrical lines outside. There's a whole website telling you how to prepare. Duck, cover and hold!