Old Dominion University to Conduct Earthquake Preparedness Drill…

On October 17 at 10:17 a.m., Old Dominion University will participate in The Great Southeast ShakeOut earthquake preparedness drill. This drill will include a test of the ODU Alerts system and instruct participants on the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” safety practice. Outdoor notifications will only alert those outside, and registration for alerts is encouraged. The drill underscores the importance of earthquake preparedness in Virginia, particularly following a significant seismic event in 2011.

On Thursday, October 17, at 10:17 a.m., Old Dominion University (ODU) will be conducting an earthquake preparedness drill, coinciding with the multistate initiative known as “The Great Southeast ShakeOut.” This event presents an opportunity for students, faculty, and staff at ODU to enhance their knowledge regarding earthquake safety measures. During the approximately 10-minute drill, ODU will also administer its regular semiannual test of the Emergency Notification System (ODU Alerts). Notifications will be conveyed through a variety of channels, including outdoor loudspeakers (limited to the Norfolk main campus), text messages, desktop alerts, emails to students and staff, and updates on the ODU website. Participants are advised that outdoor loudspeaker alerts are meant solely for individuals outdoors, as these communications do not permeate building structures. In case of adverse weather conditions or a genuine emergency, the drill will be rescheduled for the same time on the next suitable business day. It is important for those who have not yet registered for the ODU Alerts service to do so via the ODU Alerts website, available at www.odu.edu/alerts. As part of the drill, participants will engage in the widely endorsed safety technique known as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” This practice instructs individuals to drop down to the ground, seek shelter beneath a sturdy surface if available, and maintain their position until the shaking subsides. Retreating outdoors during an earthquake is discouraged, as it poses significant risks of injury from falling debris and structural hazards. The state of Virginia has seen a substantial registration for the 2024 Great Southeast ShakeOut, with over 762,000 citizens, including more than 69,000 within higher education institutions and 23,000 in state governmental roles. Virginia’s participation in this significant drill commenced in 2012, following a 5.8 magnitude earthquake that caused considerable damage, such as the iconic Washington Monument requiring extensive repairs costing $15 million. For additional information about earthquake preparedness, stakeholders are encouraged to visit www.odu.edu/emergency or www.shakeout.org/southeast. Inquiries may also be directed to ODU Emergency Management at [email protected] or through phone at 757-683-5116.

Earthquake preparedness is a critical initiative, particularly in regions prone to seismic activity. The Great Southeast ShakeOut is a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing public awareness of earthquake safety protocols and fostering robust emergency response practices. With Virginia’s historical context of experiencing significant earthquakes, such as the notable event in 2011, it is essential for institutions like Old Dominion University to engage their communities in drills that simulate real-life emergency situations.

In conclusion, Old Dominion University’s participation in the upcoming earthquake preparedness drill on October 17 represents a proactive approach to enhancing the safety and well-being of its community. By practicing established safety protocols such as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On,” and ensuring robust communication through the ODU Alerts system, the university aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively in the event of an earthquake. The significance of community preparedness cannot be overstated, especially in light of the historical context of seismic events in Virginia.

Original Source: www.odu.edu