Today (April 17th, 2012) at 10:15 the state of Utah is participating in an Earthquake drill (The Great Utah Shakeout). This will be the largest earthquake drill in Utah history.
If you are just now learning about this event head over to www.shakeout.org/utah. In particular check out the how to participate page. Here is an example of what you as an individual could do (taken from http://www.shakeout.org/utah/individuals/):
- At 10:15 Drop, Cover, and Hold On Drop to the ground, take Cover under a table or desk, and Hold On to it as if a major earthquake were happening (stay down for at least 60 seconds). Practice now so you will immediately protect yourself during earthquakes! (See this page for what to do if you are in bed, outside, driving, in a tall building, or other situations.) For people with disabilities or access and functional needs, download our preparedness guide (661 KB) PDF.”
- While still under the table, or wherever you are, look around and imagine what would happen in a major earthquake. What would fall on you or others? What would be damaged? What would life be like after? What will you do before the actual earthquake happens to reduce losses and quickly recover?
- (Optional) Practice what you will do after the shaking stops.
- After your drill is complete, have discussions about what was learned and incorporate these lessons into your disaster plan.
This is a great opportunity to look at your emergency plans. Have you thought about earthquakes? Is your 72-hour / bug-out-bag ready to go?
If you are on twitter you can follow @UtahShakeOut and the #shakeout hashtag for more up-to-date info.
