Great British Columbia Shake Out Today

Millions of people worldwide are taking part in earthquake preparedness drills today.

The Great British Columbia ShakeOut, organized by the British Columbia Earthquake Alliance, is an annual opportunity for individuals, communities, schools, and organizations to practice essential earthquake safety measures such as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.”

Beyond the drill, participants are encouraged to critically review and update their emergency preparedness plans and supplies, while also taking proactive measures to secure their spaces and prevent potential damage and injuries.

An earthquake of significant magnitude could occur on Vancouver Island at any time, potentially exceeding the capacity of the local emergency response system to provide immediate assistance for an extended period.

Seismic upgrades at the John Hart Dam or Strathcona Dam aren’t scheduled to be complete until 2030 and until then there is a potential risk of dam failure following a significant earthquake.

Various communities are holding drills and as downtown Campbell River is especially at risk, officials say the exercise is important for anyone who frequents the downtown core.

At 10:17 a.m. you’re asked to drop, cover and hold on for five minutes. After the “shaking” stops, count to 60 and then begin your evacuation immediately by getting safe and moving out of the area.

If you are starting outside of the downtown flooding zone, you have completed the exercise.

If you are starting in the downtown flooding zone, you’re asked to proceed to evacuate to your closest area outside of the flooding zone on foot or by bicycle (it is unlikely that regular vehicles could navigate the roads after an earthquake due to extensive damage).

When you safely reach an area outside of the flooding zone, check to see how long it took you to evacuate your area.

To learn more, visit Great British Columbia ShakeOut.