WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA will participate in the Great ShakeOut, the world’s largest earthquake drill.
The ShakeOut takes place at 10:20 a.m. (local time) on Thursday, Oct. 20. Participation in the drill is just one of the many ways FEMA helps create a prepared and resilient nation. FEMA encourages everyone in America to join the agency’s workforce and millions of others around the world as they practice earthquake safety.
Participants in homes, schools and organizations across the world will partake in the yearly earthquake drill. During this time, you should DROP to the ground, take COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or table and HOLD ON as if there was a major earthquake occurring.
Earthquakes can strike anywhere, at any time. That’s why it is always recommended that you know what to do even if you believe your area may not be at risk.
Ground shaking during an earthquake is seldom the cause of injury. Most earthquake-related injuries and deaths are caused by collapsing walls and roofs, flying glass and falling objects.
During an earthquake, immediately moving to a safe place can save lives, so your safe place should be within a few steps to avoid injury from flying debris. Identify safe places such as under a sturdy piece of furniture or against an interior wall in your home, office or school so when the shaking starts you can respond quickly.
Before an earthquake, take these actions to prepare your home and family:
- Visit ready.gov/plan to make a plan for your family, work or school.
- Update and organize your emergency supply kit. Visit ready.gov/kit to learn more.
- Conduct an Earthquake Home Hazard Hunt for unsecured items that could fall in the event of an earthquake.
- Register and participate in the ShakeOut to prepare yourself and your environment in the event of an earthquake.
You can help spread earthquake safety awareness by sharing your ShakeOut through our digital platforms. Take a photo and tag @FEMA using hashtags: #ShakeOut and #EarthquakeSafety.
To learn more about ShakeOut, visit the website. You can also text “shakeout” to 43362 and be added to the FEMA app distro list for earthquake preparedness tips and safety info.