Most people don’t associate earthquakes with Indiana. However, the Hoosier state has trembled in the wake of earth waves generated by powerful earthquakes. The most recent event near our area occurred May 2, 2015 in Galesburg, Michigan, which is approximately 55 miles from the Indiana Border. The 4.0 magnitude quake was felt by residents in St. Joseph, LaPorte, and Elkhart Counties. More significant events include the New Madrid earthquakes of 1811-1812, and the Wabash River Valley Quake that occurred on September 27, 1909.
Earthquake awareness and preparedness are key to minimizing injuries and deaths prior to these events occurring.
The “ShakeOut” is designed to help individuals and communities to takes steps necessary to prepare for these earthquakes, by practicing how to protect themselves.
The Great Central U.S. Shakeout Drill is scheduled for Thursday, October 15, 2015 at 10:15am.
During the self-led “ShakeOut” drill, participants perform a variety of disaster safety activities, including:
- Practicing Drop, Cover, and Hold On
ü Drop – to the floor
ü Cover – take cover under a sturdy table or desk. If that is not possible, seek cover against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms. Avoid danger spots near windows, hanging objects, or tall furniture.
ü Hold on – If you take cover under a table or desk, HOLD on to it and be prepared to move with it until the ground stops shaking and it is safe to move.
- Testing emergency plans or procedures
- Updating disaster supply kits
- Securing items that may fall or cause injury during an earthquake, and much more
The Great Central U.S. ShakeOut is coordinated by the Central U.S. Earthquake Consortium and its member and associate states, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Geological Survey and dozens of partners. The goal of the program is to engage participants to take steps to become better prepared for earthquakes and other disasters. The drill is free and open-to-the-public, and participants include individuals, schools, businesses, local and state government agencies, and many other groups. Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills began in California in 2008 and have expanded each year since then.
Interested citizens, schools, communities, businesses, etc. are encouraged to visit www.shakeout.org/centralus to register to participate in the drill. On the website, many resources are available for participants to use during the ShakeOut drill including drill manuals, audio and video drill broadcasts, earthquake scenarios, and more.
Remember: Disaster Preparedness is Everyone’s Responsibility!
