SUU's Participation in the 2016 Great Utah Shakeout

10:05 a.m. on April 21, 2016

Join us in the world's largest earthquake drill - April 21, 2016Southern Utah University will, "Drop, Cover, and Hold on" in The Great Utah Shakeout, the State's largest earthquake drill ever! All colleges and universities are encouraged to participate in the drill. Here are seven steps to help prepare you for the drill or potential earthquake.

Personal Preparedness Steps:

  1. Secure your space by identifying hazards and securing moveable items i.e., bookcases, furniture, cabinets, etc.
    For securing items on campus submit a work order at: http:/www.suu.edu/ad/facilities/work-orders.html
  2. Plan to be safe by creating a disaster plan and deciding how you will communicate in an emergency. Refer to your department's emergency response plan for more specific details.
  3. Organize disaster supplies in convenient locations.
  4. Minimize financial hardship by organizing important documents, strengthening your property, and considering insurance.
  5. Drop, Cover, and Hold On during the drill and during an actual earthquake.
    1. If you are in a classroom:
      1. Drop to the floor.  Do not try to exit during shaking.
      2. Cover your head and neck with one hand and seek
        shelter under your desk or table as best as possible.
        If in an auditorium with no tables, take cover between the
        rows of chairs.
      3. Hold on to the leg of the desk/table with your other hand
    2. If you are in a laboratory:
      1. Step back from the lab table.
      2. Drop to the floor on your knees next to a wall, away from
        glass and other hazards if possible.
      3. Cover your head and neck with your hands and arms.
      4. Hold Onto something sturdy during the shaking
    3. If you are outside:
      1. Move to a clear area if you can safely do so; avoid power lines, trees, signs, buildings, vehicles, and other hazards.
    4. Improve safety after earthquakes by evacuating if necessary, helping the injured, and preventing further injuries or damage.

      After the immediate threat of the earthquake has passed, your level of preparedness will determine your quality of life in the weeks and months that follow.
    5. Reconnect and Restore daily life by reconnecting with others, repairing damage, and rebuilding the community.

    For more information please visit The Great Utah Shakeout