On Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at 9:45 a.m. the State of Washington is holding an Earthquake Drill.

The purpose of this drill is to increase awareness of the potential for Earthquakes in the Northwest.

During the drill people should practice Drop, Cover and Hold.

What does that mean? If an earthquake starts you should Drop to the floor under a protective object, Cover your head to protect yourself from falling objects and Hold on until the shaking is over. (When I lived in California, I counted to 100. If I made it, everything was cool.)

If and after you have survived the shaker, according to State Criteria, is to survey the damage and evacuate if necessary.

Some people believe getting in a door frame will provide sufficient protection but I have heard that the shaking may cause the door to swing and injure anyone standing in the door frame. Others believe it is best to run outside but if you do that you risk being injured by falling objects.

The State of Washington has decreed that the best option in an earthquake is to Drop, Cover and Hold. 

The State is encouraging everyone to participate in the Drill and afterwards discuss disaster preparedness.

So, Tommorrow April 21, 2010 - Earthquake Drill - 9:45 a.m.

Drop, Cover and Hold!