Earthquake Drill BC | How to Run a Drill | British Columbia ShakeOut

How to Run an Earthquake Drill

Running a drill is easy! Follow these steps, and be prepared when the next earthquake strikes.

Step 1: Get Prepared

Consider how an earthquake will affect your area. Look around and imagine what would happen in a major earthquake. What would fall? What would be damaged? This great list from Earthquake Country Alliance will show you no cost and low cost ways to better safeguard your home or workplace in the event of an earthquake.
Learn the basics of “Drop, Cover and Hold On”
Designate an outdoor assembly area, in the event that your building is considerably damaged and unsafe.
Do you live or work near the coast? Consider the event of a tsunami evacuation, and find out where the safe ground area is for your region.

Step 2: Download Resources

Download audio and video recordings of the ShakeOutBC drill, which provide easy to follow instructions for participants, and simulated earthquake sounds.

Media & Resources

Step 3: Sign Up for the Drill

Chose a date and time, or sign up to participate along with millions worldwide for The Great Shakeout.

Sign Up Now

Step 4: When it’s Time

Play the downloaded recordings out loud.
“Drop, Cover, Hold On”: Drop to the ground, take cover under a table or desk and hold on as if a real earthquake was occurring. Learn what you should do if you have a disability or physical limitation.
Wait for the “shaking” to stop and count to 60 to allow objects that may have shifted during the shaking to settle, then cautiously come out of your safe DROP, COVER, HOLD ON location.
While evacuation during an actual earthquake should never be automatic, you may wish to practice evacuation to your designated assembly area.
Run through the steps listed in “After the Shaking Stops” informational brochures, according to where you are practicing your drill:

Other Things to Consider

Have a Plan

Draft a family or work emergency plan outlining how you’ll respond during an earthquake, especially if you’re separated. Make sure to consider pets and people who need extra help. Making a plan is a great way to start.

Build an Emergency Kit

Stock enough food, water and emergency supplies to sustain you for a minimum of three days. Longer is better. Need a quick solution? SOS is a Great Shakeout Partner and provides purchasable emergency kits.

Create grab-and-go bags

Earthquakes aren’t guaranteed to happen when you’re at home. Have emergency kits for your vehicle and workplace. You can also find kits like this through SOS.