The 2016 Great ShakeOut Earthquake drill is scheduled for 10:20 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 20, 2016. James City County will participate by using this as an awareness initiative to remind all of us how to be safe if an earthquake occurs. County employees will review earthquake safety information and consider how to react at both the workplace and their homes. Join us by doing the same at your home or place of employment.
Earthquakes in Virginia tend to be minor but are more common than most people realize. Many County residents recall the 5.8 quake in 2011 which was felt in much of the eastern United States.
A JCC Alert message will be issued prior to 10:20 a.m. tomorrow. Be sure you are registered at JCCAlert.org to receive emergency warnings, alerts and notifications.
In an earthquake, remember to:
- DROP to the ground before the earthquake drops you!
- Take COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or table, and
- HOLD ON until the shaking stops.
If there is no desk or table nearby, do not run to another room but drop to the floor in an inside corner of the building and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms. Do not try to run outside of the building where falling bricks, glass or other building materials could strike you. If you are driving, pull over to the side of the road and wait until the shaking stops. Be aware of poles, trees or wires that might fall.
Media Contact: Kathleen C. Hale
757-564-2141
Kathleen.Hale@jamescitycountyva.gov