Earthquakes are a fact of life in Japan. Only one month ago, a 7.2-magnitude temblor and a number of aftershocks struck the Tohoku region, killing 13 in Fukushima, Miyagi and Iwate prefectures and leaving 10 still listed as missing in Miyagi and Akita prefectures.

For many foreigners, especially those from countries where there are few quakes, the prospect of being caught in one can be terrifying. To help alleviate that fear, The Japan Times offers tips on how to prepare for and deal with the inevitable temblors.

How quake-resistant is the building I live in?