The city of Santa Clarita will host the Great California ShakeOut earthquake drill at City facilities on Thursday, Oct. 17, at 10:17 a.m. to help train community members on how to properly drop, cover and hold on during an earthquake.

The Great California ShakeOut is a statewide earthquake drill held annually as an opportunity for the community to review emergency preparedness plans and supplies.

Those visiting a City facility, such as a Santa Clarita Public Library branch, City Hall or the Newhall and Canyon Country Community Centers, will have the opportunity to participate in the drill on October 17. City staff will play an audio recording at 10:17 a.m., encouraging those in attendance to practice taking cover. At City Hall, an evacuation drill will take place following the drop, cover and hold on exercise (evacuations will not take place at other sites).

The community is encouraged to take the following Drop, Cover and Hold On steps during an earthquake:
– Move only as far as necessary to reach a safe place. Take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and hold onto it firmly.
– Be prepared to move with the shaking.
– Hold the position until the ground stops shaking, and it is safe to move.
– Do not go to a doorway for safety – injury can occur from swinging doors.

For more earthquake safety and preparedness tips, or to learn how to participate in the Great California ShakeOut, please visit ShakeOut.org. For more information on the City’s participation in the program, please contact Management Analyst Rebecca Widdison at (661) 284-1407 or rwiddison@santa-clarita.com.