International Shakeout Day
International ShakeOut Day is an annual event dedicated to promoting earthquake preparedness and safety. It encourages individuals, communities, and organizations to participate in drills that simulate what to do during an earthquake, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for such natural disasters.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: Every third Thursday of October
- Tagged as: Earthquake preparedness day
- What’s the hashtag?: #ShakeOut
- When was it founded?: 2008
- Who founded it?: The Southern California Earthquake Center
History of International ShakeOut Day
International ShakeOut Day originated from a successful earthquake drill held in Southern California in 2008, known as the Great Southern California ShakeOut. This initiative aimed to raise awareness about earthquake safety and preparedness, leading to its expansion into a global event.
Timeline
- 2008: First ShakeOut drill held in Southern California
- 2009: The event becomes an annual observance
- 2016: Over 55 million participants globally
- 2023: Observed on October 19
- 2024: Scheduled for October 17
- 2025: Scheduled for October 16
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 16 | Thursday |
| 2026 | October 15 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 21 | Thursday |
| 2028 | October 19 | Thursday |
| 2029 | October 18 | Thursday |
| 2030 | October 17 | Thursday |
Observed
International ShakeOut Day is observed worldwide, with millions participating in drills that teach the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique, which is crucial for safety during an earthquake.
Fun Facts About International ShakeOut Day
- The event has grown from a local initiative to a global movement involving millions.
- Schools, businesses, and government agencies actively participate, making it a community-wide effort.
- The drills not only focus on earthquakes but also raise awareness about other natural disasters like tsunamis.
Quiz
- When is International ShakeOut Day observed?
- What does the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique entail?
- Who founded International ShakeOut Day?
Answers:
- Every third Thursday of October
- Drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until shaking stops.
- The Southern California Earthquake Center
FAQs
What should I do during an earthquake?
Drop, cover, and hold on until the shaking stops.
Can I participate if I live outside of earthquake-prone areas?
Yes! Everyone can benefit from earthquake preparedness training.
How can I get involved?
You can participate by organizing or joining a local drill on ShakeOut Day.
Related
- Earthquake Safety Tips
- Emergency Preparedness Resources
- Natural Disaster Awareness Programs
