ODU Hosts Earthquake Preparedness Drill on October 17

On October 17 at 10:17 a.m., Old Dominion University will host an earthquake preparedness drill coinciding with ‘The Great Southeast ShakeOut.’ The drill emphasizes the ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold On’ technique while testing the Emergency Notification System. Participants will practice crucial safety measures to ensure readiness amidst potential seismic threats.

Old Dominion University (ODU) invites students, faculty, and staff to participate in a critical earthquake preparedness drill on Thursday, October 17, at 10:17 a.m. This event coincides with ‘The Great Southeast ShakeOut,’ a multistate exercise designed to enhance earthquake safety awareness. During this ten-minute drill, ODU will also conduct its semiannual test of the Emergency Notification System (ODU Alerts), notifying participants through various means including outdoor speakers and text messaging.

The drill emphasizes the importance of the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique, instructing individuals to drop to the ground, take cover under a solid structure, and hold on until the tremors cease. This methodology offers the safest response during an earthquake, as moving outside can lead to severe injuries due to falling debris. It is crucial that participants prepare for the drill and learn these vital safety procedures.

In the past, Virginia has seen significant earthquakes, including a 5.8 magnitude event in 2011 that impacted thousands. The state has participated in the ShakeOut initiative since 2012, with over 762,000 Virginians registered for the 2024 event. In the event of inclement weather or a real emergency on October 17, the drill will be rescheduled to the next suitable business day. To receive notifications, individuals are encouraged to register at the ODU Alerts website.

Earthquakes are a natural disaster that can occur with little warning, making preparedness critical. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management advocates for the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” method as an effective response strategy. This approach minimizes the risk of injury by encouraging individuals to stay put and shield themselves during seismic activity. The Great Southeast ShakeOut is an initiative that raises public awareness and ensures individuals are equipped with knowledge and skills to respond effectively to earthquakes, fostering a culture of safety and readiness.

In conclusion, the earthquake preparedness drill at Old Dominion University on October 17 presents a vital opportunity for community members to enhance their safety knowledge and skills. By participating in ‘The Great Southeast ShakeOut,’ attendees will practice essential earthquake response techniques, reinforcing the importance of preparedness in mitigating risks. Engagement in such drills is crucial, especially in light of past earthquakes affecting Virginia. For those wishing to receive alerts during emergencies, registration is recommended, ensuring informed and prepared responses to potential seismic events.

Original Source: www.odu.edu