Old Dominion University to Conduct Earthquake Preparedness Drill on October 17
Old Dominion University will hold an earthquake preparedness drill on October 17 at 10:17 a.m., coinciding with ‘The Great Southeast ShakeOut.’ Participants will learn and practice the ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold On’ technique. The drill will include a test of the ODU Alerts system and will be communicated through various channels. Those not registered for alerts are encouraged to sign up.
Old Dominion University (ODU) will host an earthquake safety drill on Thursday, October 17, at 10:17 a.m., coinciding with the multistate exercise known as “The Great Southeast ShakeOut.” This event aims to educate students, faculty, and staff on proper earthquake response techniques, specifically the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” method. During the approximately 10-minute drill, ODU will conduct a test of its Emergency Notification System to inform participants through various channels including outdoor speakers, text messages, and emails.
The drill is crucial for public safety as it allows participants to practice appropriate actions during an earthquake, which can be instinctively counterproductive, such as running outdoors. Instead, individuals are advised to wait indoors to avoid potential hazards such as falling debris. This procedure is recommended by the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and is endorsed throughout the United States.
ODU encourages all individuals who have not yet registered for ODU Alerts to do so by visiting the university’s official website. Should inclement weather or another emergency occur, the drill will be rescheduled to the next fair-weather business day. This initiative reflects a commitment to resilience, following Virginia’s participation in these drills since 2012, prompted by a significant earthquake in the state that year.
Earthquake preparedness is a critical component of public safety, especially in areas susceptible to seismic activity. The state of Virginia, along with educational institutions, has recognized the importance of routine drills to enhance awareness and response strategies. The Great Southeast ShakeOut serves as a statewide drill that aims to prepare communities for similar emergencies. The involvement of Old Dominion University underscores the necessity of such drills in academic environments, providing participants with valuable skills and knowledge to safeguard themselves during an earthquake.
In conclusion, the earthquake preparedness drill at Old Dominion University is a significant opportunity for the university community to enhance their safety awareness and response skills. This initiative, part of the larger Great Southeast ShakeOut, reinforces the importance of preparedness in mitigating the risks associated with earthquakes. By participating in this drill, ODU aims to foster a culture of safety and preparedness among its students, faculty, and staff.
Original Source: www.odu.edu
