On October 17 at 10:17 a.m., ODU will conduct an earthquake preparedness drill as part of the Great Southeast ShakeOut, alongside its regular emergency alert system test. Participants will practice the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” safety protocol, while notifications will be communicated through various channels. The drill aims to enhance earthquake response awareness in light of Virginia’s historical seismic activity.
On Thursday, October 17, at precisely 10:17 a.m., Old Dominion University (ODU) will partake in a significant earthquake preparedness initiative, coinciding with the larger multistate event, “The Great Southeast ShakeOut.” All students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to participate in this exercise, which aims to enhance awareness and understanding of earthquake safety protocols. Concurrently, ODU will execute its regular semiannual test of the Emergency Notification System (ODU Alerts).
The approximately ten-minute drill will see notifications dispatched via various channels, including outdoor loudspeakers (at the Norfolk main campus), text messaging, desktop computer alerts, faculty and staff email communications, and updates on the ODU website. It is important to note that the outdoor notifications are designed exclusively for individuals outdoors as the system does not penetrate building walls. Should inclement weather or a real emergency arise, the drill will be rescheduled to the next suitable business day.
Participants in the drill will practice the widely endorsed safety measure known as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” This directive instructs individuals caught in an earthquake to drop to the ground, seek cover under sturdy furniture, and remain in position until the shaking ceases. Geological consultations advise against the immediate inclination to exit buildings during tremors, as this behavior can significantly heighten the risk of injury from falling debris. According to the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, this methodology represents the best practice for earthquake response within the United States.
Since Virginia’s inclusion in the Great Southeast ShakeOut in 2012, following the 2011Mineral earthquake of magnitude 5.8, over 762,000 individuals across the state, including approximately 69,000 in higher education and over 23,000 in state government, have signed up to partake in and receive notifications about the event. Notably, the prior earthquake caused considerable damage, affecting thousands and necessitating a lengthy closure and extensive repairs to the Washington Monument, which cost an estimated $15 million.
To further enhance earthquake preparedness and safety knowledge, individuals are invited to visit ODU’s emergency management website or the ShakeOut’s official page. Questions regarding the drill and safety procedures can be directed to ODU Emergency Management via email or phone.
This upcoming drill serves not only to test emergency alert systems but also to promote vital earthquake preparedness strategies that could save lives during actual seismic events. Students and faculty are strongly urged to participate and familiarize themselves with safety protocols.
Earthquake preparedness is a critical aspect of public safety, particularly in regions susceptible to seismic activity. Old Dominion University is actively engaging its community to foster awareness and skills regarding effective responses to earthquakes. The implementation of multi-state drills, such as The Great Southeast ShakeOut, emphasizes collaboration and readiness among educational institutions and their constituents. Initiatives like these are crucial given Virginia’s history with earthquakes, notably the 2011 tremor that underscored the importance of preparedness across the state, activating statewide protocols and institutional responses.
The fire drill on October 17, 2023, at Old Dominion University represents a proactive approach to earthquake preparedness through education and practical exercises. By participating in the Great Southeast ShakeOut and utilizing the Emergency Notification System, the university underscores its commitment to ensuring the safety of its community. The adherence to the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” procedure will provide individuals with the necessary tools to respond effectively during such natural disasters, thereby potentially reducing injuries and promoting safety.
Original Source: www.odu.edu
