Virgin Islands Joins Global ‘ShakeOut’ Drill to Improve Earthquake Safety

The Virgin Islands will be participating in ‘ShakeOut’, a worldwide earthquake safety practice session, on October 19.

This self-led drill, expected to attract millions of participants globally, will be coordinated locally by the Department of Disaster Management (DDM).

According to Director Jasen Penn, the goal of ShakeOut, like other emergency exercises, is to provide individuals with a sense of how they would respond in an actual emergency situation. “Earthquakes can occur without warning, so it is crucial to respond safely and calmly,” stated Mr. Penn. He emphasized that the more people practice safer earthquake responses, the better prepared they will be for the next major earthquake.

Participants in ShakeOut will practice the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” safety method, which is endorsed by emergency officials and first responders. This method involves dropping to the ground onto one’s hands and knees, which provides protection from being knocked down and safeguards vital organs. Participants are then instructed to cover their head and neck with one arm and hand. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, they should crawl underneath it for shelter. In the absence of shelter, individuals should move towards an interior wall away from windows. Finally, participants are advised to hold on until the shaking stops. If under shelter, they should hold onto it with one hand and move with the shelter if it shifts. If not under shelter, individuals should hold onto their head and neck with both arms and hands.

To enhance the drill experience, participants are encouraged to review their earthquake response plans and practice them together as a family or organization. Following the exercise, the DDM urges participants to share photos or videos on social media using the #BVIShakeOut tag.

For additional earthquake preparedness resources or advice on customizing a ShakeOut drill for specific organizations, the Department of Disaster Management can be contacted at (284) 468-4200 or via email at bviddm@surfbvi.com.

To register for participation in the ShakeOut exercise, individuals can visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/shakeout2023.