By Alana Mauger

DROP, COVER and HOLD ON – It’s time for The Great Shake Out, observed globally on the third Thursday of October. On Oct. 21, at 10:21 a.m. (local time), you’re encouraged to join the world’s largest earthquake drill to help you prepare for what to do in the event of a major earthquake where you live, work or travel.

While earthquakes are rare in the Northeastern United States, they DO happen. According to the U.S Geological Survey (USGS), 329 earthquakes occurred or were felt in Pennsylvania over the last 30 years, with Berks and Lancaster counties being particularly active.  

Ground shaking during an earthquake is seldom the cause of injury. Most earthquake-related injuries and deaths are caused by collapsing walls and roofs, flying glass and falling objects. During an earthquake, you may only have seconds to protect yourself before strong shaking knocks you down or drops something on you. Practicing three simple steps – DROP, COVER and HOLD ON – can help you be prepared.

If you are inside a building:

• Take no more than a few steps, then DROP to the ground.
• Take COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or table.
• HOLD ON to it until the shaking stops.
• Stay inside the building until the shaking stops.

If you are outdoors when the shaking starts:

• Find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, streetlights and power lines.
• DROP, COVER and HOLD ON.
• Stay there until the shaking stops.

If you are driving:

• Pull over to a clear location.
• Stop and stay there with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops.
• Once the shaking stops, proceed with caution and avoid bridges or ramps that might have been damaged.

More than 118,000 participates are registered for Great Shakeout events in Pennsylvania, including Abington and Pottsgrove school districts, Upper Bucks Technical School and BAYADA Home Health Care in our area. Regionally, the The Great Northeast Shake Out is supported by Ready PA. But you don’t have to be part of a formal event to practice earthquake safety. Regardless of where you are on Oct. 21 at 10:21 a.m. (or choose a different time that fits your schedule), identify the safest area in your immediate setting, then DROP, COVER and HOLD ON for at least 60 seconds. You can also register your participation here to be counted as part of the largest earthquake drill ever!