Prepare for the Great ShakeOut with Earthquake Safety Drills

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On Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 10:17 a.m. local time, Idahoans will join millions worldwide in the Great ShakeOut, the largest earthquake drill ever. This annual event is an important opportunity to practice life-saving actions like Drop, Cover, and Hold On—preparing all of us for the next big earthquake.

Whether you’re at home, work, school, or in a public space, everyone can participate. The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages all Idahoans to take part, ensuring you’re ready when the shaking starts. The actions we take can prevent an earthquake from turning into a catastrophe.

Drop, Cover, and Hold On

In most situations, if you feel shaking or receive an earthquake alert, take these life-saving actions:

  1. DROP: Get down on your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked over and helps keep you stable.
  2. COVER: Use one arm to cover your head and neck. If possible, crawl under a sturdy table or desk for shelter. If there’s no nearby shelter, move to an interior wall and stay low.
  3. HOLD ON: Stay in position until the shaking stops. If under a table, hold on to it with one hand in case it shifts. If no shelter is available, protect your head and neck with both hands.

Adapt to Your Situation

If you have mobility challenges, there are ways to adapt the Drop, Cover, and Hold On drill to suit your needs:

  • Using a cane: Sit on a chair or bed, cover your head and neck with your hands, and keep your cane nearby.
  • Using a walker or wheelchair: Lock the wheels if possible, get as low as you can, and cover your head and neck with your arms or a pillow. Hold on until the shaking stops.

For more detailed accessibility tips, visit EarthquakeCountry.org/accessibility.

Why Drop, Cover, and Hold On?

Experts and rescue teams agree that Drop, Cover, and Hold On is the safest action you can take during an earthquake. Alternatives like running outside, standing in doorways, or the so-called “triangle of life” are outdated and dangerous.

Research shows that you’re far more likely to be injured by falling or flying objects, such as TVs, lamps, or glass, than by building collapses. Practicing the Drop, Cover, and Hold On drill prepares you to act quickly and safely when the ground starts shaking.

What NOT to Do During an Earthquake:

  • DO NOT stand in a doorway: Modern buildings don’t offer extra protection in doorways, and you’re still exposed to flying objects. Get under a table instead.
  • DO NOT run outside: You’re safer inside. Running can cause falls or injuries from debris, and the outside of buildings is one of the most dangerous places during an earthquake.
  • DO NOT believe in the “triangle of life”: This discredited method is not recommended by experts and could put you in danger.

Prepare and Practice

Earthquakes happen without warning, and you might only have seconds to react. Make it a habit to practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On regularly, just like children do in school. The more you practice, the more instinctive your response will be during a real earthquake.

Help protect yourself and others by spreading the word about the importance of practicing Drop, Cover, and Hold On. It’s a simple action that could make all the difference when an earthquake hits.

For more additional information on Drop, Cover, and Hold On drills, check out these resources: