Stay Safe During an Earthquake: Drop, Cover, and Hold On
In California, we’re no strangers to earthquakes, and that’s why the City of Dana Point just participated, with cities across the state of California, in DROP, COVER, and HOLD, as part of the Great California Shake Out earthquake preparedness program.
We want to encourage local organizations and businesses to practice and be prepared to survive and recover quickly from an earthquake.
- Identify safe areas around your office like under your desk, under a table, or along the wall. Ensure there is enough space and that you could comfortably fit for an extended period of time. Yes, get down there and check it out!
- Schedule a day and time to distribute a simple staff email with the subject line: ***Earthquake**Earthquake**Earthquake***
- Ask employees to shout “Earthquake! Earthquake! Earthquake!” upon receiving the email to start the drill and alert anyone who isn’t at their computer.
- Then you will simply DROP, COVER and HOLD ON!
- After 60-90 seconds, send a follow-up email indicating that it is all clear.
If you own a business that is open to the public, please remind them this is a drill and feel free to invite them to participate. Post attached flyers on the front doors to notify incoming traffic.
If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away. In MOST situations, you will reduce your chance of injury if you: Drop, Cover, and Hold On!
- If you are in a vehicle, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are outdoors, stay outdoors away from buildings.
- Do not get in a doorway.
- Do not run outside.
We also encourage residents to take a moment with your families to prepare and practice at home by following the Seven Steps to Safety: www.EarthquakeCountry.org/sevensteps.
For more information on earthquake preparedness, go to http://www.earthquakecountry.org/dropcoverholdon/.