The Marshall County Emergency Management Agency wants to remind you that the Great Central U.S. Shakeout Drill is happening at 10:15 a.m. Oct. 15.

The purpose of the event is to improve awareness and preparedness in order to minimize injuries or deaths when earthquakes occur in Indiana.

During the self-led “ShakeOut” drill, participants perform a variety of disaster safety activities, including:

• Practicing Drop, Cover, and Hold On
• Drop – to the floor
• Cover – take cover under a sturdy table or desk. If that is not possible, seek cover against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms. Avoid danger spots near windows, hanging objects, or tall furniture.
• Hold on – If you take cover under a table or desk, HOLD on to it and be prepared to move with it until the ground stops shaking and it is safe to move.
• Testing emergency plans or procedures
• Updating disaster supply kits
• Securing items that may fall or cause injury during an earthquake

Interested citizens, schools, communities, businesses etc. are encouraged to visit www.shakeout.org/centralus to register to participate in the drill.

On the website, many resources are available for participants to use during the ShakeOut drill including drill manuals, audio and video drill broadcasts, earthquake scenarios, and more.

Remember: “Disaster Preparedness is Everyone’s Responsibility.”