At 10:15 a.m. on April 18, 2019, a text message will be sent out to everyone with a warning of an impending earthquake. Do not worry; it isn’t real. It is part of a worldwide movement called The Great ShakeOut.
The Great ShakeOut was created to teach people what to do if the “big one” — a predicted earthquake that is supposed to be truly devastating — were to hit the valley in the near future. Participants are asked to “drop, cover, and hold on” immediately after the text is sent out.
“If they are at a desk try to get under it, just like they may have done for drills in elementary, junior high or high school. If they are walking around a building, go somewhere that has something they can duck underneath of,” says Lisa Schwartz, who oversees the event at Salt Lake Community College.
Schwartz says the drill is simple and encourages all students, faculty and staff to participate.
“Even if you are in a hurry or feel it is silly, please remember that your body defaults to the training that you provide it. If you have not taken the time to give it something to default to, you may find yourself not able to respond quickly and accurately enough to protect yourself from harm,” says Schwartz.
The Great Utah ShakeOut will take place wherever you are. When you receive the text, remember to drop, cover, and hold on. Prepping for the big one may seem silly today, but it might just save your life when it happens.
