Old Dominion University Hosts Earthquake Preparedness Drill on October 17

Old Dominion University will hold an earthquake preparedness drill on October 17 at 10:17 a.m., coinciding with “The Great Southeast ShakeOut.” This drill, which includes the testing of the ODU Alerts system, aims to educate participants on earthquake safety techniques such as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” Over 762,000 Virginians are participating in this initiative, reinforcing its importance for community safety.

On Thursday, October 17, at 10:17 a.m., Old Dominion University (ODU) will conduct an earthquake preparedness drill, coinciding with the multistate exercise known as “The Great Southeast ShakeOut.” This initiative is aimed at educating students, faculty, and staff about earthquake safety protocols. During this approximately 10-minute drill, ODU will also perform its semiannual test of the Emergency Notification System (ODU Alerts), which will communicate through various channels, including text messages and emails, to ensure widespread awareness and participation.

The drill aims to instill vital safety practices among participants, particularly the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique. This method recommends individuals drop to the ground, take cover under a durable surface if available, and hold on until the shaking ceases. Despite the natural impulse to exit buildings during an earthquake, this action can be perilous due to potential hazards such as falling debris. This drill provides an essential platform for practicing a life-saving response in line with recommendations from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.

Virginia has actively participated in the Great Southeast ShakeOut since 2012, following a significant earthquake that impacted the state. This year’s event has garnered over 762,000 participants statewide, highlighting significant engagement within local communities and institutions. Those wishing to receive ODU Alerts for future emergencies are encouraged to register at the ODU Alerts website.

For individuals seeking further information on earthquake safety, the resources available at www.odu.edu/emergency and www.shakeout.org/southeast serve as valuable references. For queries, ODU Emergency Management can be contacted directly.

The importance of earthquake preparedness cannot be overstated, particularly in regions susceptible to seismic activity. The Great Southeast ShakeOut is an annual event designed to educate the public on essential safety measures during earthquakes. It emphasizes that recognizing safe practices can significantly reduce panic and increase safety during seismic events. In Virginia, significant past earthquakes have prompted the state to enhance preparedness efforts, leading to statewide participation in drills.

In conclusion, the upcoming earthquake preparedness drill at Old Dominion University serves as a critical opportunity for the community to strengthen their readiness for potential seismic events. By practicing the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique and participating in the multi-state ShakeOut drill, participants will better understand how to respond effectively during an earthquake. This event not only highlights the ongoing commitment to public safety but also fosters a culture of awareness and preparedness among students, staff, and faculty.

Original Source: www.odu.edu