Even though there is a small fault line that runs through the western half of Ohio, it is very rare for us in OH to feel earthquakes... Here in Mansfield (halfway between Cleveland and Columbus), both my fiance and I felt it. I am at home, and she is working about 2 miles away... It was almost like mild dizziness for about 10-15 seconds. Nothing very strong, but distinctly disconcerting... She noticed curtains and pictures on the wall swaying just a little. I really feel for the folks in California; it would be very strange to have the earth moving under your feet at something much closer to a 5 or a 6 or even higher.

So, I can't speak for all... I wasn't afraid for my life in the imminent sense, but I certainly began to understand the danger response when something like that happens.