Navigating the Ethical Maze of School Safety: A TV Case Study
Hi, my name is Olivia. I have been a Joffe Safety Consultant for the last two and a half years while finishing my doctorate in public health, which...
2 min read
Elizabeth Rupert : October 2, 2024
Why Participate in the Great ShakeOut?
The Great ShakeOut is the world’s largest earthquake drill, and it’s designed to be more than a simple practice of “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” While this basic action remains at the center of earthquake response, the ShakeOut also offers schools and organizations an opportunity to integrate broader preparedness strategies into their routines. This year’s International ShakeOut Day is on October 17, 2024, and it offers a perfect chance for schools to make earthquake drills a valuable learning experience.
Why Is the Great ShakeOut so Important?
The idea behind the ShakeOut is to create a sense of urgency around earthquake preparedness, using decades of research to promote actionable safety steps. The science behind earthquakes tells us that while we can’t predict when the next big one will hit, we know they are inevitable – particularly in regions like California, which sits on an active fault line.
The Great ShakeOut serves as a reminder that being unprepared isn’t an option. And while drills with only a “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” element are still worth practicing, the most successful drills incorporate real-world challenges that help schools identify gaps in their emergency plans.
How Can Your School Make the Most of the Great ShakeOut?
For schools looking to upgrade their ShakeOut experience, here are some ideas to consider:
Getting Involved
Participating in the ShakeOut is simple, yet profoundly impactful. Schools can register at ShakeOut.org and pledge their involvement. Registered participants receive free resources, including planning tips and ideas for making the drill more engaging. On October 17, 2024, schools around the world will drop, cover, and hold for one minute, but that’s just the start. Use this year’s ShakeOut as a teachable moment for your school community, and reach out if you’d like to learn more!
Hi, my name is Olivia. I have been a Joffe Safety Consultant for the last two and a half years while finishing my doctorate in public health, which...
Why Participate in the Great ShakeOut? The Great ShakeOut is the world’s largest earthquake drill, and it’s designed to be more than a simple...
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