Did you know that British Columbia has the most earthquake activity than any province in Canada? Each year more than 1,000 earthquakes are recorded in western Canada alone.
In order to help British Columbians prepare for an earthquake, ShakeOut BC encourages people to participate in an earthquake drill on the third Thursday every October by practising: Drop, Cover and Hold On at home, work or school.
This year's drill is on Oct. 20 at 10:20 a.m.
Shake drills
• When you feel an earthquake, the first thing you should do is: DROP to the ground so the earthquake doesn't drop you first!
• Then you should take COVER under a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a desk or a table. If you aren't near a desk or a table, stay close to an interior wall and curl up to protect your vital organs.
• Then, you should HOLD ON with one hand over your head and neck, and one holding onto the furniture you've taken cover under. If you are not under a desk or table, use one hand to protect your neck and the other to protect your head.
Did you know most earthquake-related injuries are the result of falling or flying debris, not from buildings collapsing?
Protecting your head, neck and vital organs is paramount to your safety. Share this with your friends and family so that your loved ones know what to do during a quake.
Visit shakeoutbc.ca for more information.