NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release October 2, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

Idahoans Encouraged to Participate in Great Idaho ShakeOut

Drop, Cover, Hold-On Exercise Reinforces Earthquake Preparedness

 

BOISE – Just last month parts of eastern Idaho were rattled by more than 140 small earthquakes. Idaho is the 6th most seismically active state in the country. That’s why the Great Idaho ShakeOut is the perfect opportunity to make sure you and your family, and your co-workers, know what to do when an earthquake happens. The Great Idaho ShakeOut is part of a worldwide earthquake drill on October 19th at 10:19 AM during which people will practice the steps of Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Individuals and organizations can register and learn more at https://www.shakeout.org/idaho/

More than 44,000 participants have signed up for the event, including schools, counties, churches, neighborhood groups, and individuals. The Great Idaho ShakeOut is not something you need to leave work to participate in – in fact, participating at work is encouraged! Businesses, organizations, schools, and government agencies can register and have their employees practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On or have a more extensive emergency drill. The exercise reinforces what to do when earthquakes happen, the key rule being to drop, take cover under a desk or similar protected area and hold on.

After the ground stops shaking, be sure you know how to turn off utilities like natural gas, electricity, and water. Throughout the year everyone should have emergency supplies of water, food, and necessary equipment so they can survive for at least three days without outside help following any major disaster. Remember to plan for your pets, children, and any special needs, including medical conditions. Earthquake preparedness is one important part of an overall goal of being prepared for any disaster.

• Make sure your family’s 72+ hour Emergency Kit is always updated and ready to go
• Consider what could happen if an earthquake shakes your area
• Do a Hazard Hunt for items that might fall in your home, school or work environment
• Teach all household members how to use a fire extinguisher
• Plan for your family’s specific needs (seniors, disabled, children, pets)
• If you are a business or organization, develop, review and exercise your emergency plan

 

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

 

Original Release