Old Dominion University to Conduct Earthquake Preparedness Drill on October 17
Old Dominion University will participate in the Great Southeast ShakeOut, an earthquake preparedness drill, on October 17 at 10:17 a.m. The event includes a simultaneous emergency alert test, teaching essential safety protocols. Participants will practice the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” method to prepare for potential seismic events. The drill also emphasizes the importance of registration for emergency notifications among the university community.
On Thursday, October 17, at 10:17 a.m., Old Dominion University (ODU) will conduct an emergency alert test in conjunction with a statewide earthquake preparedness drill, known as “The Great Southeast ShakeOut.” This event provides an important opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to enhance their knowledge regarding earthquake safety and the university’s emergency notification systems. Notifications during the ten-minute drill will occur through various platforms, including outdoor loudspeakers, text messages, computer alerts, and emails.
Participants will practice the essential safety technique of “Drop, Cover, and Hold On,” which instructs individuals to drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold position until the shaking concludes. It is critical to understand that rushing outside during an earthquake can lead to injuries due to falling debris or unstable structures. This drill serves as a practical reminder of earthquake protocols that can save lives.
In the event of inclement weather or an actual emergency, the drill will be rescheduled to the same time on the following fair-weather business day. ODU encourages those who have not yet registered for alerts to visit the ODU Alerts website to enroll in this complimentary service. This initiative aligns with Virginia’s participation in the multistate drill, which began following a notable 5.8 magnitude earthquake in 2011, emphasizing the importance of preparedness.
The Great Southeast ShakeOut is an annual earthquake preparedness drill encompassing multiple states, initiated to promote awareness and safety education regarding seismic events. Virginia joined the program in 2012, following a damaging earthquake that took place in 2011. The drill allows participants to practice safety measures and to familiarize themselves with emergency procedures as part of a wider effort to mitigate risks associated with earthquakes, especially in regions susceptible to such natural disasters. With over 762,000 Virginians registered for the drill, it highlights a significant collective commitment to safety and preparedness within communities and institutions.
The upcoming earthquake preparedness drill at Old Dominion University serves not only as a test of emergency notification systems but also as a vital educational opportunity for the campus community. By participating in the drill, ODU students, faculty, and staff will reinforce critical safety practices that can significantly enhance their preparedness for a potential earthquake. The university’s commitment to safety, along with the statewide participation in the Great Southeast ShakeOut initiative, underscores the importance of staying informed and ready to respond appropriately in emergencies.
Original Source: www.odu.edu
