By Vaishnavi Kalakota

Every year on the third Thursday of October, millions of people across the world take part in the Great ShakeOut, a global earthquake drill that teaches everyone how to stay safe when the ground starts shaking. The key steps are simple but lifesaving: Drop, Cover, and Hold On.

1. Drop to your hands and knees before the earthquake knocks you down.
2. Cover your head and neck under a sturdy desk or table. If there’s no shelter nearby, cover your head with your arms and crouch near an interior wall.
3. Hold On to your shelter until the shaking stops.

This year’s drill officially takes place on October 16th, but you can do your own drill at any time. To make the experience real, my family, friends, and I joined in the ShakeOut drill this week. We practiced in our living room, timing how long it took for everyone to get to safety. “It felt weird pretending there was an earthquake,” said my brother, “but now I know what to do if one happens.” 

After the drill, we discussed creating an emergency kit and planning safe meeting spots. The drill lasted just a few minutes, but it made a big difference; we’re all a little more prepared now. 

To participate, go to ShakeOut.org/register and pledge your family, school, business, or organization’s participation in the drill. Registered participants will receive information on how to plan their drill and involve others. At the minimum practice one of the recommended protective actions listed at ShakeOut.org/dropcoverholdon. It is only a one-minute commitment for something that can save your life.