DROP, COVER, HOLD ON!

These three actions may save your life if (when) there is an earthquake where you are.

The Great Washington ShakeOut will take place on October 17, 2013 at 10:17 am. Great ShakeOut Earthquake drills are a chance to practice how to protect ourselves during big earthquakes, and also how to get prepared.

Here’s the drill: Identify safe spots in every room, such as under sturdy desks or tables, or on the ground next to an interior wall away from windows and things that may fall.

Earthquakes can start fires, so store a fire extinguisher where it can be easily accessed, and learn how to use it (P.A.S.S.-Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).

People often cut their feet during or after earthquakes when they get out of bed and walk barefoot on broken glass or other fallen objects. To keep shoes and a flashlight within reach, put them in a bag under your bed.

Access to making long distance phone calls is usually restored first. Choose someone who lives out of the area for everyone in your family to report their status, then learn how to Text First, Talk Second from ShakeOur partner Safe America Foundation.

If you are a person with a disability or need extra help, include your personal support network in your plan and visit EarthquakeCountry.org/disability for a variety of resources.

Brendan Cowan, Department Emergency Management, says, “Islanders should expect to be on their own for at least a week, providing their own food, water, and other essentials because we will be cut off from the mainland.”

The Drill will help ensure you’re prepared when the ground shakes.

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