The ShakeOut Drill
We're all in this together-- with your participation, ShakeOut will be the largest earthquake drill in U.S. history!
Resources for participants and news media
- The What You Can Do section includes simple suggestions as well as detailed drill scripts for certain groups
- NEW! Audio and Video "Drill Broadcast" recordings have been created to provide instructions during your drill
- NEW! "Preparedness Now"compelling new film that depicts what will happen in a "big one," and other videos.
- NEW! Technical Drill Resources including a simulated CISN Display, ShakeMaps, and more.
- NEW! News Media Resources including contacts, visuals, media advisories and releases, list of drill venues, and more.
An Earthquake Drill for the Record Books
On October 15, 2009, millions of people in homes, schools, businesses, government offices, and public places all over southern California will practice what to do during earthquakes: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Why? An enormous earthquake is in our future, and the ShakeOut Drill gives us a chance to practice what to do when it happens.
Why is important to do a Drop, Cover, Hold On drill? Just as with anything, to act quickly you must practice, practice, practice. In a big earthquake, there may be very little time to protect yourself before strong shaking knocks you down or drops something on you. Most earthquakes have a sharp jolt a few seconds before the strong shaking, and we need to Drop, Cover, Hold On immediately when we feel the jolt. By practicing we will act quickly, rather than waiting to see if the earthquake will be large. If it is, it may be too late to protect yourself.
If you have received information that says that "Drop, Cover, Hold On" is dangerous and recommends an alternative called "Triangle of Life," please be assured that all reputable emergency organizations and emergency responders support "Drop, Cover Hold On." Our special report describes this issue in detail and provides links to statements from many organizations in support of Drop, Cover, and Hold On as the best action to take to protect yourself during earthquakes. Also, our new website at www.dropcoverholdon.org links to a great deal of information about what to do during earthquakes.
Select a Group to Learn How You Can Participate
Families
Neighborhood Groups
CERT Groups
Schools
Scouting Groups
Colleges and Universities
Non-Profit Organizations
Faith-Based Groups
Medical Centers
Local Governments
Museums
Information in Multiple languages
You may find answers to your questions on our Frequently Asked Questions page.
