‘Great Arizona ShakeOut’ On 10/17 At 10:17 Preps For Earthquakes

ARIZONA – Many Arizonans might be surprised to learn that data from the U.S. Geological Survey shows that Arizona has about 100 earthquakes each year, most of which go unfelt. But that doesn’t mean the potential for a damaging earthquake doesn’t exist here, according to officials at the University of Arizona. Meanwhile, experts say preparation is necessary to protect ourselves and others from earthquake dangers. Accordingly, the Great Arizona ShakeOut held Thursday, Oct. 17 at 10:17 a.m. aims to do just that, by giving Arizona participants the chance to join in a unified earthquake drill.

The drill can be practiced that day at the appointed time by individuals or families at home, schools, church and civic groups, businesses, health facilities, government entities and tribal communities.

“Geologic faults in Arizona, surrounding states and Mexico can produce damaging earthquakes up to magnitude 7.5. Such large events could cause strong and damaging ground shaking across the state,” U of A officials wrote in a media release.

The Great Arizona ShakeOut, with anticipated participation of 100,000 among Arizona residents, will also occur in 49 other states and 4 U.S. territories Thursday. As the country’s biggest voluntary emergency preparedness event, the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill on 10/17 at 10:17 a.m. will have all participants engaging in this three-part earthquake drill:

• Drop to the ground.
• Take cover underneath a sturdy desk or table and protect your neck and head.
• Hold on to your shelter until the earthquake ends.

The greatest immediate threats inside any building or home are falling or flying objects, including flat-screen TVs, furniture, ceiling tiles, ceiling fans, mirrors, dishes, lights and pictures.

But the Great Arizona ShakeOut aims to teach Arizonans how to avoid those dangers. “The Great Arizona ShakeOut is an opportunity to practice drop, cover, and hold on, a simple behavior that could protect you, your family and friends from harm in the event of a damaging earthquake," said the U of A’s Arizona Geological Survey Director Phil Pearthree.

Those who register for the Great Arizona ShakeOut can be counted among the number of participants this year, and will receive email updates and more, according to the Great Arizona ShakeOut website. English or Spanish audio or video ShakeOut recordings can be played on 10/17 at 10:17 a.m. to start and guide your drill. However, the website requests that participants download the audio or video files in advance of the ShakeOut drill.

The Great Arizona ShakeOut is presented by the U of A's Arizona Geological Survey, the American Red Cross, the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and municipal and county emergency management organizations.