Office of Emergency Management

Great ShakeOut

At 10:19 a.m. on October 19, 2023, millions of people will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in The Great ShakeOut, the world's largest earthquake drill ever! All colleges and universities are encouraged to participate in the drill (or plan a more extensive exercise). Major earthquakes may happen anywhere you live, work, or travel. The ShakeOut is our chance to practice how to protect ourselves, and for everyone to become prepared. The goal is to prevent a major earthquake from becoming a catastrophe for you, your organization, and your community. Why is a “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drill important? To respond quickly you must practice often. You may only have seconds to protect yourself in an earthquake before strong shaking knocks you down, or something falls on you.