CAMARILLO, CA — The Ventura County Fire Department is encouraging community members, schools and businesses throughout Ventura County to participate in The Great California ShakeOut at 10:15 a.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2020.
The Great California ShakeOut is a statewide earthquake drill held annually as an opportunity for the community to review emergency preparedness plans, refresh disaster supplies, and practice how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On”.
“While damaging earthquakes here may be fewer in number when compared to other areas, they can occur at any time wherever we work, live, or travel within the region and beyond. Everyone, everywhere should know how to protect themselves from an earthquake,” said John McNeil, VCFD Assistant Fire Chief.
The safe response is to practice “Drop, Cover and Hold On” steps during an earthquake, including:
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DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked down and also allows you to stay low and crawl to shelter if nearby.
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Take COVER under a sturdy desk or table, hold onto it firmly and protect your head and neck.
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HOLD ON until the ground stops shaking and it is safe to move.
Recent earthquakes serve as a reminders that large earthquakes can occur with little to no warning. California is not immune to earthquakes. The region is home to several active seismic zones capable of producing damaging earthquakes, including the San Andreas Fault.
For more earthquake safety and preparedness tips or to register to participate in The Great California ShakeOut, visit ShakeOut.org. Once registered, participants will receive information on how to plan their drill and become better prepared for earthquakes and other disasters.
To sign up for Ventura County time sensitive emergency alerts, create a profile on www.vcalert.org or text the word “VCALERT” to 313131.
For more information on VCFD’s participation in the program, please contact the Public Information Office at
