In an earthquake, you may only have seconds to protect yourself before strong shaking knocks you down, or something falls on you. Practice earthquake-safe actions on October 19. Why? Because when the adrenaline kicks in, you may not act safely if you haven’t practiced the Drop, Cover, Hold On drill before that moment. Don’t wait until the shaking – register at ShakeOut.org/register to practice earthquake safety with your community.

Invite everyone who matters to you to register and ShakeOut this year– on 10/19 or whatever day works.. Everyone is welcome to participate – individuals, families, businesses, schools, government agencies and organizations!

Are You Ready to ShakeOut?

Millions of people live and work in earthquake-prone regions of the United States. A major earthquake could cause unprecedented devastation for one of these regions but also affect the economy of the entire country. What we do now, before a big earthquake, will determine how well we survive and recover.

Each year, Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills involve millions of participants worldwide through broad-based outreach programs, media partnerships, and public advocacy by hundreds of partners. The drill is held annually on the third Thursday of October. This year, International ShakeOut Day will be on October 19. However people and organizations can hold their drills on any other day of the year.

A key aspect of the ShakeOut is the integration of comprehensive science-based earthquake research and the lessons learned from decades of social science research about why people get prepared. The result is a “teachable moment” on par with having an actual earthquake (often followed by increased interest in getting ready for earthquakes). ShakeOut creates the sense of urgency that is needed for people, organizations, and communities to get prepared, to practice what to do to be safe, and to learn what plans need to be improved.

Not just any drill will accomplish this; it needs to be big. It must inspire communities to come together. It must involve children at school and parents at work, prompting conversations at home. It must allow every organization, city, etc., to make it their own event. We are all in this together.

To participate, go to ShakeOut.org/register and pledge your family, school, business, or organization’s participation in the drill. Registered participants will receive information on how to plan their drill and involve others. At the minimum practice one of the recommended protective actions listed at ShakeOut.org/dropcoverholdon. It is only a one-minute commitment for something that can save your life.

For more information, visit ShakeOut.org.