Five years ago, Virginians were surprised to find themselves at the epicenter of a 5.8 magnitude earthquake. At the time, many members of our community had never experienced an earthquake and were unsure how to respond. In an effort to remind you how to prepare and what to do during an earthquake, the University will join other states throughout the region for the Great Southeast ShakeOut on Thursday, October 20, at 10:50 a.m. Please join this drill as your schedule allows. You are not expected to interrupt class, patient care or other essential services to participate.
All components of the University's Emergency Notification System, including text, email, Alertus desktop display, LCD and LED screens in public spaces and classrooms, the siren and public address system, and the Medical Center's in-house paging system and overhead announcements, will be used to announce the earthquake drill at 10:50 a.m. An all clear notification will be issued at approximately 11:10 a.m.
How to Act during an Earthquake
- If you are inside, stay there. Most injuries are caused when a person falls down or an object falls on them.
- Drop! Cover! Hold On!
- If you are outside, move to a clear area if safe to do so. Avoid power lines, trees, signs, buildings and other hazards. Remain in the open until the shaking stops.
- If you are in a moving vehicle, pull over and set the parking brake. Avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, signs and other hazards. Remain inside the vehicle until the shaking is over. If a power line falls on the car, stay inside until a trained person removes the wire.
After an Earthquake
- Look around to be sure it is safe to move.
- Call 911 to report injuries, fire, gas leaks, debris, etc.
Where to Get News
- In an emergency, find the most up-to-date information on the University Emergency page at http://www.virginia.edu/emergency.
- Announcements will be made on WTJU 91.1 FM Radio.
Contact the Office of Safety and Emergency Preparedness at (434) 982-0565 or [email protected] with questions or to report if your area is planning additional ShakeOut activities.