Alexandria To Participate In Regional Earthquake Drill

While earthquakes are known to be more common in the western United States, the Virginia earthquake of 2011 served as a reminder that residents should know how to prepare. The City of Alexandria is participating in the Great Southeast ShakeOut earthquake drill on Thursday, Oct. 18, at 10:18 a.m. and encourages residents to join.

Held annually, the drill allows residents to practice how to protect themselves during an earthquake. Virginia residents can register their businesses, workplaces, or families. By signing up, you will be counted toward the regional drill, which is expected to have record participation. At least 2 million participants have signed up so far.

In most scenarios, the suggested action to reduce chance of injury is "drop, cover, hold on." Here are the steps you can practice during the drill:

• DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked down and allows you to stay low and crawl to shelter if nearby.
• COVER your head and neck with one arm and hand. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall, away from windows. Stay on your knees; bend over to protect vital organs.
• HOLD ON until shaking stops. If you’re under shelter, hold on to it with one hand, and be ready to move with your shelter if it shifts. If you’re not under shelter, hold your head and neck with both arms and hands.

The drill website has tips on what to do if you're in a school, business or caring for small children.

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