Thousands Participating In ‘Great Utah ShakeOut’
Apr 15, 2021, 8:43 AM | Updated: 8:59 am
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Utah will participate in the largest earthquake drill we’ve ever seen just over a year removed from the Magna earthquake.
Ninety percent of Utah’s population lives in an earthquake zone, and Wednesday’s “Great Utah ShakeOut” will help Utahns simulate an earthquake experience and raise preparedness levels.
“The main goal of the ShakeOut is to get Utahns prepared for major earthquakes, so use the ShakeOut as an opportunity to learn what to do before, during and after an earthquake,” officials said.
The campaign has seen an aggressive push from the Utah Division of Emergency Management, using social media sources to make sure everyone has the chance to sign up.
They said over 700,000 residents have already done so online.
Drills on the site will help Utahns simulate an earthquake experience at 10:15 a.m. Thursday.
“Most people will practice how they will drop, cover and hold on during a large earthquake, which only takes about one minute,” officials said. “Some organizations conduct more extensive drills, which may take an hour or even all day. How to participate is your choice.”
Experts believe the big one — a 7.0 magnitude quake — last shook the Salt Lake Valley about 1,400 years ago — so we’re due for another one.
During an earthquake, experts recommend immediately looking for something to duck underneath and hold on if you’re inside.
If you’re outside, stay away from buildings. If you’re in your car, pull over and set the emergency brake.
