This year’s International ShakeOut Day is Thursday, October 19, when millions of people worldwide will participate in earthquake drills at work, school, or home.
At 10:19 a.m. (local time) on 10/19, you can join more than a million people across the Central U.S. practicing earthquake safety.
What to do during an earthquake drill
Drop
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
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
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.
If you use a cane: DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON or sit on a chair, bed, etc. and cover your head and neck with both hands. Keep your cane near you so it can be used when the shaking stops.
If you use a walker or wheelchair: LOCK your wheels (if applicable). If using a walker carefully get as low as possible. Bend over and COVER your head/neck with your arms, a book, or a pillow. Then HOLD ON until the shaking stops.
Earthquake Safety
Learn more about the risk of earthquakes in the greater Kansas City region and steps you can take to prepare and stay safe during an earthquake.
