Local officials encourage earthquake readiness in Great ShakeOut

Millions of people worldwide will participate in the Great ShakeOut drill today to practice what steps they would take in the event of an earthquake.

With more than 40 states, including Missouri, having some potential for earthquakes, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and state and local agencies are encouraging everyone to participate in the drill, beginning at 10:15 a.m. local time.

"We would encourage everyone to take a moment and try to determine what they would do at that time if there was an earthquake," said Mark Hasheider, Cape Girardeau Fire Department assistant chief and emergency management coordinator.

In most situations during an earthquake, a person would drop to the ground, take cover under a nearby sturdy table or desk and hold on to it until the shaking stops.

"We have found that a lot of people will try to exit a building," Hasheider said. "During that time frame, they're exposing themselves to items falling within the building. ... A lot more buildings will have items falling off of it than will have a total collapse."

People who have mobility disabilities and cannot drop still should cover and hold on, according to FEMA. If seated, they should cover their head and neck with their arms or a pillow until the shaking stops. People who use wheelchairs should lock their wheels, cover and avoid transferring from their wheelchair until the shaking stops.

Those who are driving during an earthquake should pull the vehicle to the side of the road, if possible, he said.

After planning what to do during an earthquake, Hasheider said people should reflect on ways to minimize injury to themselves and property.

Heavy items, such as pictures that could potentially fall, should be secured, as well as nightstands and refrigerators, he said.

People should reflect on whether they have enough supplies to sustain themselves for three to five days after an earthquake, giving emergency agencies time to respond, he said.

klamb@semissourian.com

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