COLUMBUS – Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security (FCEM&HS) encourages the community to join millions of participants in the Great Central U.S. ShakeOut Earthquake Drill by practicing the "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" technique at 10:17 a.m. on Thursday, October 17, 2024.
Earthquakes can strike anywhere, whether you're at home, work, or traveling. It's crucial for everyone to know how to protect themselves in case of an earthquake. The Great ShakeOut Drill offers an ideal chance to practice safety measures and enhance preparedness. The ultimate goal is to save lives and prevent disasters from escalating into major crises.
Drop, Cover, and Hold On is the recommended safety action should an earthquake occur. During an earthquake, individuals are advised to:
- Drop to the ground.
- Take Cover under a sturdy table or desk if possible, and protect their heads and necks.
- Hold On until the shaking stops.
"As we prepare for the Great ShakeOut this week, it's vital to remember that practice is our best defense against the unexpected," said Jeffrey J. Young, Director of Franklin County Emergency Management & Homeland Security. "By participating in this drill, we’re taking a significant step toward creating safer community and a more resilient future."
To participate in the 2024 Great Central U.S. ShakeOut:
- Register at www.ShakeOut.org/centralus/register to be counted in the ShakeOut Drill and get email updates.
- Download a Drill Broadcast recording from www.ShakeOut.org/drill/broadcast
- Have a two-minute “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drill at 10:17 a.m. on October 17th.
- You may also want to coordinate an exercise of your emergency plan.
- Update disaster supply kits.
- Discuss what you learned and make improvements.
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