California residents participate in annual Great ShakeOut earthquake drill

Millions of Californians participated in the annual Great California ShakeOut on October 15, a statewide earthquake drill designed to practice emergency preparedness. Participants, including students, government employees, and residents, were encouraged to “Drop, Cover and Hold On” for at least 60 seconds to simulate a response to a major seismic event.

In Los Angeles County, drills were held at locations such as Fremont High School, involving the Los Angeles Unified School District and the Earthquake Country Alliance. These exercises included campuswide evacuations and tests of the ShakeAlert earthquake early warning system. The American Red Cross also participated in demonstrations of safety techniques.

Leading up to the drill, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) conducted a tour featuring a traveling earthquake simulator. At San Francisco State University, the simulator provided students with the experience of a 7.0-magnitude earthquake. Officials emphasized that the primary goal is to combat dangerous myths, such as the urge to run during shaking, and to reinforce scientifically proven protective measures.