ShakeOut – Drop, Cover and Hold On

International ShakeOut Day is on October 20. On this day, millions of people around the world practise how to stay safe during an earthquake.

In B.C., the Great British Columbia ShakeOut will take place at 10:20 a.m. People from across the province will take part in a “Drop, Cover and Hold On” drill. To join, register at ShakeOutBC.ca.

What is Drop, Cover and Hold On?

During an earthquake, strong shaking can knock you down or cause something to drop on you. You may only have a few seconds to protect yourself.

Emergency experts agree the best way to stay safe is to “Drop, Cover and Hold On.”

What to do:

  1. Drop to the ground.
  2. Take Cover by getting under a sturdy desk or table. If there isn’t a desk or table near you, drop to the ground in an inside corner of the building. Cover your head and neck with your hands and arms. Do not try to run to another room just to get under a table.
  3. Hold on to the desk or table until shaking stops.

What not to do:

  • Get in the doorway
  • Run outside

Adapted from ShakeOutBC.ca • Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Joe Loong