The Great California Shakeout is an annual earthquake drill to remind millions of Californian’s about earthquake safety and to drop, cover and hold. The team at Hoffman Brown Company reenact an earthquake by playing loud rumbling sounds and glass breaking over their sound system. The team is directed to take cover, by one of their leaders using a bullhorn. Once the loud sounds stop they are instructed to quickly evacuate the building by using the stairs. Once in their safe meeting spot outside, roll-call is taken to be sure everyone is accounted for. Questions are answered about a real life event and what to do if someone is injured or could not evacuate. This annual drill gives everyone piece of mind and is a good reminder about earthquake safety.
Here are some tips from FEMA covering various scenarios:
In bed: Lie face down to protect vital organs. Cover your head and neck with a pillow, keeping your arms as close to your head as possible; hold on to your neck and head until the shaking stops.
In a store: Get next to a shopping cart, beneath clothing racks, or within the first level of the racks. Those in wheelchairs should lock their wheels, bend over and cover their heads.
Outdoors: Move away from power lines, buildings, cars and other hazards. Dropping down and covering yourself still protects you from objects thrown sideways.
At the beach or below a dam: At the beach – After the shaking stops, head to high ground for better safety in case of a tsunami. Below a dam – Get to high ground or follow official instructions.
Driving: Pull to the side of the road, stop and set the parking brake. Avoid bridges, power lines, signs and other hazards. Stay stopped until the shaking subsides, then avoid fallen debris and cracked or shifted pavement.
In a theater or stadium: Drop to the ground in front of your seat, or lean over as much as you can. Then cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands until the shaking stops. Walk out slowly, watching for anything that might fall during aftershocks.
Source: LA Times 10/21/16
