Turkey is located on a geologically active area. This location makes Turkey to be at risk for earthquakes any time, anywhere. Geologists believe Turkey is due for another big quake before 2030. So, what can you do to prepare if an earthquake hits Istanbul? 
There are things to keep in mind if an earthquake hits Istanbul, or any other place for that matter:
DO NOT PANIC. Know your house's strong points, such as supporting beams, sturdy furniture such as desks and tables. Get on the ground and cover yourself under a piece of furniture. STAY AWAY from windows and objects that might fall on your head.
Knowing your building is important too. This means to know if your building is up to the safety codes put in place after the major earthquake of 1999. Turkey put in place a lot of new safety measures into the requirements of buildings constructed after the event. While this sounds nice and all, you must know that many believe these new features and safety measures are nothing but a glorified gentrification project.
It is also important to know your neighbors too. If by any chance your house is destroyed and your neighbor's is not, you need to know who you can depend on. Know your nearby parks and squares, open areas etc. these are places to go after a disaster.
Make an earthquake kit as well. You'll need to pack necessary items such as water, canned goods and candies. Also pack sanitary items, medications and bandages, flashlights and batteries. Have some cash at hand as well as a copy of your passport. If you have a pet, don't forget about them, pack pet food as well. Having a first aid kit is very important too.
Buy a large hiking backpack, it doesn't need to be high quality, it just needs to be big enough to store all your necessary items.
There are things to keep in mind if an earthquake hits Istanbul, or any other place for that matter:
DO NOT PANIC. Know your house's strong points, such as supporting beams, sturdy furniture such as desks and tables. Get on the ground and cover yourself under a piece of furniture. STAY AWAY from windows and objects that might fall on your head.
Knowing your building is important too. This means to know if your building is up to the safety codes put in place after the major earthquake of 1999. Turkey put in place a lot of new safety measures into the requirements of buildings constructed after the event. While this sounds nice and all, you must know that many believe these new features and safety measures are nothing but a glorified gentrification project.
It is also important to know your neighbors too. If by any chance your house is destroyed and your neighbor's is not, you need to know who you can depend on. Know your nearby parks and squares, open areas etc. these are places to go after a disaster.
Make an earthquake kit as well. You'll need to pack necessary items such as water, canned goods and candies. Also pack sanitary items, medications and bandages, flashlights and batteries. Have some cash at hand as well as a copy of your passport. If you have a pet, don't forget about them, pack pet food as well. Having a first aid kit is very important too.
Buy a large hiking backpack, it doesn't need to be high quality, it just needs to be big enough to store all your necessary items.