California is a state that experiences many earthquakes yearly. Earthquakes can be dangerous, so it is important for people to learn how to protect themselves. Schools and workplaces teach people what to do in case of an earthquake by having earthquake drills. One well-known drill is the Great ShakeOut drill. The Great ShakeOut drill is held annually on the third Thursday of October. Many states, including California, participate in this activity every year. This year, the Great ShakeOut took place on October 15. Typically, the Great ShakeOut Drill takes place during school. There would be an announcement over the intercom and students and staff would proceed to do the necessary actions during an earthquake. Although we are not able to participate in this drill this year, there was an email sent out on October 13 in regards to tips and information on how to prepare for earthquake safety. At home, you can practice the Drop, Cover, and Hold On! drill. This drill is used during earthquakes because it is the most appropriate action to reduce injuries and death. The Great ShakeOut drill was started in 2008, “as a drill designed to educate the public about how to protect themselves during a large earthquake, and how to get prepared” (shakeout). Some may wonder, what is the importance of having an annual earthquake drill? “Great ShakeOut earthquake drills are an opportunity to practice how to be safer during earthquakes,” and “has been organized to encourage you, your community, your school, or your organization to update emergency plans and supplies, and to secure your space in order to prevent damage and injuries” (shakeout). There is an official website for the Great ShakeOut that provides information on how to protect yourself and news and events.

Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills. (n.d.). Retrieved October, from https://www.shakeout.org/