Essential Information Regarding the Upcoming Great Washington ShakeOut Earthquake Drill

The Great Washington ShakeOut earthquake drill will take place on October 17 at 10:17 a.m., involving over one million participants statewide. The event promotes preparedness for earthquakes and tsunamis through drills conducted in homes, schools, and workplaces. The MyShake app will provide alerts, and tsunami sirens will be tested. Officials remind residents to avoid calling 911 during the drill and highlight that no Emergency Alert System tests will occur this year.

The annual Great Washington ShakeOut earthquake drill is scheduled for Thursday, October 17, at 10:17 a.m. More than one million residents across Washington State are expected to participate in this important preparedness exercise. Individuals will conduct earthquake drills in various settings such as homes, schools, workplaces, and outdoor venues. The Great Washington ShakeOut is part of a broader initiative held on the third Thursday of October each year, designed to educate and prepare citizens for potential earthquakes and tsunamis. Participants who have downloaded the MyShake Earthquake Early Warning App will receive notifications regarding earthquake activity, utilizing real-time data from their mobile device sensors. Concurrently, over 120 tsunami sirens located along Washington’s coasts will be activated using the authentic sound of a tsunami warning, deviating from the usual Westminster Chimes employed during standard monthly tests. Additionally, NOAA Weather Radios will emit a test alarm, emphasizing the significance of preparedness in emergency situations. For residents in the Tri-Cities region, tests of radiation sirens will occur, along with local efforts to assess reverse 911 and opt-in text alert systems. It is advised that residents availing themselves of alerts via the Washington Emergency Management Division website remain vigilant during these tests. Officials from the Washington Emergency Management Division have expressly requested that individuals refrain from calling 911 during the drill to ensure that emergency lines remain available for individuals in genuine need of assistance. Importantly, this year, there will not be a test of the Emergency Alert System on radio or television broadcasts, nor will the Wireless Emergency Alert text system on cell phones or lahar sirens in Pierce County be activated.

The Great Washington ShakeOut is an annual statewide initiative aimed at enhancing public awareness and preparedness for seismic events, which are common in Washington State. Earthquakes and tsunamis pose significant risks due to the region’s geological features. In response, the ShakeOut drill serves as an educational exercise that encourages participants to adopt safety practices, such as dropping to the ground, taking cover, and holding on during an earthquake. This initiative not only promotes individual preparedness but also fosters community resilience in the face of natural disasters. The integration of advanced warning systems, such as the MyShake app and tsunami sirens, reflects a commitment to employing technology in emergency management.

In summary, the Great Washington ShakeOut is a vital annual event that engages residents in essential earthquake preparedness practices. With active participation expected and various safety tests scheduled, this drill aims to enhance community readiness for potential seismic threats. The collaboration of local emergency management agencies underscores the importance of remaining vigilant and prepared in the event of natural disasters. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate actively to foster a culture of safety and readiness in Washington State.

Original Source: www.fox13seattle.com