Old Dominion University to Conduct Earthquake Preparedness Drill on October 17

On October 17, 2023, at 10:17 a.m., Old Dominion University will participate in “The Great Southeast ShakeOut” earthquake preparedness drill, teaching participants about safety measures while simultaneously testing its Emergency Notification System (ODU Alerts). The drill encourages the practice of the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” response, emphasizing safety during earthquakes. In case of inclement weather, the drill will be postponed.

On Thursday, October 17, at 10:17 a.m., Old Dominion University (ODU) will join a multistate earthquake preparedness drill known as “The Great Southeast ShakeOut.” This event provides an opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to enhance their understanding of earthquake safety protocols. Concurrently, ODU will conduct a semiannual test of its Emergency Notification System (ODU Alerts). During the drill, notifications will be disseminated through various channels, including outdoor loudspeakers on the Norfolk main campus, text messages, desktop alerts, emails to the university community, and updates on the ODU website. However, it should be noted that outdoor loudspeaker announcements are primarily designed for individuals outside, as the system does not penetrate building walls. In case of adverse weather conditions or actual emergencies, the drill will be rescheduled to occur at the same time on the next suitable business day. Participants will engage in a practical exercise practicing the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” procedure, which is the recommended response during an earthquake. This technique advises individuals to drop to the ground, seek shelter under sturdy furniture when possible, and hold on until the shaking ceases. This practice is vital as instinctually running outside during an earthquake can lead to severe safety risks due to falling debris and other hazards associated with the event. The “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” guideline is endorsed as the best practice during an earthquake in the United States by the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. Since Virginia began participating in the Great Southeast ShakeOut in 2012, the state has registered over 762,000 individuals, with significant participation from higher education institutions and state government employees. This initiative follows Virginia’s experience with a damaging 5.8 magnitude earthquake in Mineral in 2011, which impacted approximately 4,500 inhabitants and businesses and resulted in the closure of the Washington Monument for extensive repairs amounting to $15 million. For more detailed information regarding earthquake preparedness, please visit the websites www.odu.edu/emergency or www.shakeout.org/southeast, or direct your inquiries to ODU Emergency Management at [email protected] or by calling 757-683-5116.

Earthquake preparedness is critical in regions susceptible to seismic activity. On October 17, 2023, Old Dominion University will be participating in “The Great Southeast ShakeOut,” a coordinated multistate earthquake drill aimed at educating participants about safety measures during earthquakes. The drill emphasizes the importance of the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” method, which is considered a standard response to earthquakes and is endorsed by emergency management organizations. This drill not only serves as a practice opportunity but also aims to enhance the university community’s awareness and response to potential earthquakes, fostering a culture of preparedness.

In conclusion, the upcoming earthquake preparedness drill at Old Dominion University represents a significant opportunity for the university community to enhance their safety awareness and emergency response skills. With the implementation of the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” procedure, ODU aims to ensure that its students, faculty, and staff are better equipped to handle seismic events. Additionally, the semiannual testing of the ODU Alerts system underscores the university’s commitment to maintaining effective communication in emergencies. Through participation in such drills, ODU continues to promote a culture of preparedness, essential in safeguarding lives during natural disasters.

Original Source: www.odu.edu