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I’m Gonna Shake it Out

More than half of Americans are exposed to potentially damaging earthquakes. That equates to tens of millions of people – which is why the Great ShakeOut earthquake preparedness drill on October 19 is a chance for people across the U.S. to practice earthquake safety measures.

This year, the annual drill is set to take place on 10/19 at 10:19 am local time, allowing families, schools, businesses, and organizations to prepare together. While most people will practice what to do during an earthquake at that time, organizers can hold drills at other times or on other days, if necessary.

Earthquake readiness can protect lives and communities. During the drill, participants practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On!” and other recommended safety actions to take during an earthquake. There are even resources for people with disabilities available at the Earthquake Country Alliance Accessibility site.

Mark your calendar and register to participate so that you know how to protect yourself, those you love, and your community. Anyone can sign up and get involved. There are many ways to participate, and you can find a variety of resources and tips online. This includes pre-made flyers, drill broadcast recordings, drill manuals, and more.

Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop Moving

When the time comes, here’s how the drill works.

If you are indoors, you should “Drop, Cover, and Hold On!” Drop where you are onto your hands and knees, then crawl for cover under a nearby sturdy desk or table and hold on to it securely. If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head and neck with a pillow. If you are not near a desk or table, crawl against an interior wall, then protect your head and neck with your arms. Avoid exterior walls, windows, hanging objects, mirrors, tall furniture, large appliances, and kitchen cabinets filled with heavy objects or glass.

After the drill, look around, see what objects could fall during a potential earthquake, and ensure to secure or move those items after the drill.

If you happen to be outdoors, move to a clear and open area if you can do so. Avoid power lines, trees, signs, buildings, vehicles, and items that can fall on you. If you are driving, pull over to the side of the road and set the parking brake. Do not shelter under bridges, overpasses, power lines, or traffic signs. Make sure to remain inside the vehicle until “the shaking” has stopped.

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“…Ready for It?”

Earthquakes can strike with little warning, sometimes leaving devastation in their wake. While some regions are more prone to seismic activity than others, it's crucial to remember that earthquakes can impact almost all regions of the United States. The Great ShakeOut serves as a stark reminder that preparedness is not an option, but a necessity. 

• Practice Saves Lives: The main objective of the Great ShakeOut is to practice what to do when an earthquake hits. Regular drills help individuals and communities develop muscle memory for responding effectively.
• Raise Awareness: This event raises awareness about earthquake risks and the importance of being prepared. It encourages individuals, schools, businesses, and organizations to take action.
• Community Resilience: A well-prepared community can better withstand the impact of an earthquake. The Great ShakeOut fosters a sense of collective responsibility to ensure that neighborhoods are ready to respond and recover.

Begin Again

By participating in drills, raising awareness, and taking concrete steps to prepare, individuals and communities can reduce the potential harm caused by earthquakes. Remember, it's not a matter of if, but when the next earthquake will occur. Your preparedness today can save lives tomorrow. Stay safe, stay ready, and make earthquake preparedness a part of your life.

In the event of a disaster, it's crucial to be self-sufficient for up to two weeks by ensuring you have an ample supply of food, water, and necessary provisions. While local authorities and relief teams aim to assist promptly, their response may not reach everyone immediately—help could arrive within hours or take several days.

All too Well…to Be Prepared

There are seven key steps to prepare for, respond to, and recover from an earthquake.

Learn More

Learn how to prepare at home using the 7 Steps to Earthquake Safety from the guidebook “Staying Safe Where the Earth Shakes,” which is available in several languages.

• Want to set up your phone to receive ShakeAlert-powered earthquake early warning alerts? Learn more here.
• To learn about your exposure to ground shaking from an earthquake near you, check out the USGS National Seismic Hazard Maps.
• The USGS provides rapid alerts of potential impacts from an earthquake through its Prompt Assessment of Global Earthquakes for Response (PAGER) system.
• Sign up to receive earthquake notices through the USGS Earthquake Notification Service.
• If you feel an earthquake, report your experience on the USGS “Did You Feel It?” website.