Alexandria Residents Invited to Participate in FEMA Earthquake Drill, Oct. 15
ALEXANDRIA, VA – Remember the August 2011 earthquake in Virginia? The epicenter was Louisa County, northwest of Richmond, but the shocks were felt here in our city.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is hosting its annual Great ShakeOut on Thursday, Oct. 15 at 10 a.m. The Great Shakeout gives people an opportunity to practice how to stay safe in the event of an earthquake Virginia is part of FEMA Region 3.
According to a press release, FEMA indicates that staying safe is “simple but critical.” The agency advises people follow these steps:
- DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees;
- COVER your head and neck with one arm and hand, as you crawl for shelter under a nearby table or desk;
- HOLD ON to your shelter with one hand until shaking stops (remain on your knees and covering your head and neck with your other arm and hand).
Over 11 million people worldwide have registered to participate. You can, too. The Great Shakeout is free and open to schools, businesses, and more.
Register HERE to receive information on how to get ready for your drill.
The Great ShakeOut is sponsored by the United States Geological Survey, FEMA, and the National Science Foundation. It is also supported by dozens of other partners.
