Old Dominion University Hosts Earthquake Preparedness Drill on October 17

On October 17 at 10:17 a.m., Old Dominion University will participate in “The Great Southeast ShakeOut” earthquake drill, testing its Emergency Notification System, ODU Alerts. The drill will implement the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” safety protocol, aiming to educate the community on effective responses during an earthquake. Participants are encouraged to register for alerts at the ODU Alerts website, with inclement weather potentially prompting a rescheduling of the drill.

Old Dominion University (ODU) is set to conduct an earthquake preparedness drill on Thursday, October 17, at precisely 10:17 a.m. This event coincides with the statewide initiative known as “The Great Southeast ShakeOut,” aimed at educating the community about earthquake safety protocols. The drill will see the university simultaneously conduct a test of its Emergency Notification System, termed ODU Alerts. During the drill, notifications will be disseminated through various channels, including outdoor loudspeakers (operational only on the Norfolk main campus), text messages, desktop alerts, emails to students, faculty, and staff, as well as updates on the ODU website. It is important to note that the outdoor loudspeaker system is designed for individuals outside and will not reach those within buildings. Should adverse weather conditions or a real emergency arise, the drill will be rescheduled to take place at the same time on the following business day that exhibits fair weather. Individuals who wish to receive alerts but have not yet registered are encouraged to visit the ODU Alerts website at www.odu.edu/alerts to enroll in this complimentary service. As part of the exercise, participants will practice the procedure known as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” This directive is essential in situations involving earthquakes, guiding individuals to drop down to their hands and knees, seek shelter under sturdy furniture if available, and hold their position until the shaking ceases. It is critical to refrain from running outside during an earthquake, as this instinct can pose significant dangers due to the risks of falling debris and unstable structures. According to the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” response is regarded as the most effective method to ensure safety during such seismic events. Notably, over 762,000 residents of Virginia, including upwards of 69,000 participants in higher education and more than 23,000 in state government, have registered for the 2024 Great Southeast ShakeOut, emphasizing the widespread commitment to earthquake preparedness. Virginia’s involvement in this multistate drill began in 2012, a year following a significant 5.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Mineral, Virginia. This seismic event impacted nearly 4,500 residents and businesses, resulting in damage to landmarks such as the Washington Monument, which underwent costly repairs totaling $15 million, leading to its closure for several years. For further information on earthquake safety protocols, individuals may refer to the following websites: www.odu.edu/emergency and www.shakeout.org/southeast. Any inquiries may be directed to ODU Emergency Management via email at [email protected] or by calling 757-683-5116.

The initiative of earthquake preparedness drills, such as “The Great Southeast ShakeOut,” serves to educate communities about essential safety measures during seismic events. With Virginia’s history of experiencing earthquakes, including the notable incident in 2011, these drills are vital in promoting readiness and awareness. The incorporation of a structured response, such as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On,” aims to mitigate injuries and enhance safety during an earthquake. By partaking in these drills, institutions like Old Dominion University reinforce their commitment to emergency preparedness and public safety.

The earthquake preparedness drill at Old Dominion University is a significant event designed to elevate awareness and educate participants on effective safety measures in the event of an earthquake. Through registering for alerts and practicing crucial safety protocols, the university fosters a secure environment for students, faculty, and staff. The collective participation in statewide initiatives underscores the importance of being prepared and proactive in the face of potential natural disasters.

Original Source: www.odu.edu