Drop, cover and hold on for ShakeOut

  • Published
  • By Airman First Class Kristan Hall
  • 341st Civil Engineer Squadron Installation Office of Emergency Management
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  You hear a rumbling sound that is growing louder by the second. It's difficult to stand up or move as a sudden jolt shakes the room. As things begin falling from the walls and crashing to the floor, you realize you are experiencing one of Mother Nature's most violent phenomena: an earthquake.  

Drop, cover, and hold on! These may seem like simple words, but together, these three simple actions are enough to save a life during a major earthquake. Earthquakes are unpredictable and happen so quickly, individuals may only have seconds to protect themselves from the shaking ground and falling objects.
 
OK, I know what you may be thinking, "Does Montana even have earthquakes?" The answer is not only yes, but it is one of the most seismically active states in the nation. Surprisingly, hundreds of earthquakes occur in and around Montana each year. 

On Oct. 21 at 10:21 a.m., residents all over Montana will "drop, cover, and hold" on during the Great Montana ShakeOut earthquake drill. Every year, the Great Montana ShakeOut encourages communities to practice drills, create emergency plans, gather supplies and practice protective measures that prevent injuries and save lives.

Individuals may only have seconds to take cover before they are knocked to the ground or something falls on them. To react quickly to these hazards everyone should be aware of their surroundings. Find a sturdy piece of furniture in the home, office or school. When the shaking starts, drop to the floor, cover your head, and hold on.

The Great Montana ShakeOut is a great way to practice for an earthquake, but preparing and practicing should not just be a one time a year occurrence. It is important to take it upon yourself to prepare before an earthquake strikes your area. Everyone can stay prepared for most natural disasters by following some simple steps.

Create a plan. This can include a list of important emergency phone numbers and local meeting points for your family. Build a survival kit with basic necessities such as water, non-perishable food, first-aid kit, blankets, flashlights and a radio. Additional survival kit items can be found at www.ready.gov. Stay involved and well-informed.  Find opportunities in your area that support preparedness and ensure resiliency amongst your community. 

It is not a matter of "if" but "when" a natural disaster will affect you. By keeping your family prepared, Mother Nature stands no chance. For more information on the Great Montana ShakeOut visit www.shakeout.org/montana. Additional preparedness guides and references can be found at the Installation Office of Emergency Management.