Practice earthquake safety during the Great Alaska ShakeOut, Oct. 16

In Alaska, earthquakes are part of life – as common as fishing in the summer or hunting in the fall. Because we are familiar with them it doesn’t mean we should underestimate them or not practice for them once in a while. Like you prepare for a fishing or hunting trip, you should also be prepared for an earthquake.

This year, the Great Alaska ShakeOut is Thursday, Oct. 16 and part of the International ShakeOut Day, when millions of people worldwide will participate in earthquake drills at work, school or home. At 10:16 a.m. (local time) on Oct.16 (10/16), you can join people across Alaska practicing earthquake safety. 

Federal, state, and local emergency management experts agree that “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” is the best action to take to reduce injury and death during earthquakes. The ShakeOut is your opportunity to practice how to protect yourself during earthquakes.

DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked down and reduces your chances of being hit by falling or flying objects.

COVER your head and neck with one arm and hand.

• If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath for shelter.
• If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall.
• Stay on your knees; bend over to protect vital organs.
  
  

HOLD ON until the shaking stops.

• Under shelter: hold on to it with one hand; be ready to move with your shelter if it shifts.
• No shelter: hold on to your head and neck with both arms and hands.

Learn more and register for the Great Alaska ShakeOut here.