SHAKE OUT: Earthquake Drill Teaches Life-Saving Skills

Would you know what to do if the ground started shaking? Preparedness is key to surviving any natural disaster. On 10/17 at 10:17 am, people around the world will take cover for International Shake Out Day.

All 50 states are at some risk for earthquakes. Scientists have no way of predicting when they will happen. It could be any day, at any time. Most earthquake-related injuries and deaths are caused by collapsing walls and roofs, flying glass and falling objects. It is extremely important for a person to move as little as possible to reach a place of safety. Problems occur when you try to move more than a short distance during the shaking.

According to rescue teams who have been dispatched to the scene of earthquakes and other disasters around the world, they continue to advocate the use of the internationally recognized “Drop, Cover and Hold On” protocol to protect lives during earthquakes.

DROP to the ground (before the earthquake drops you!),

Take COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or table, and

HOLD ON to it until the shaking stops.

Meteorologist Meredith Garofalo explores more information about earthquakes and earthquake safety:

Once your plan is in place, it’s time to build a survival kit. Survival kits should include food, water, medicine, first aid kit, blankets, and a whistle to signal for help. Don’t forget about pets too!

For resources to hold your own drill, visit ShakeOut.org.