GREAT CALIFORNIA SHAKEOUT OCT. 18

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October 11, 2012 (San Diego) – On October 18 at 10:18, San Diego County residents will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in the Great California ShakeOut, the largest earthquake drill ever.  Below are Eartqhuake Safety Dos and Don’ts.  

At 10:18 a.m. on October 18, 2012, we will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in The Great California ShakeOut, the largest earthquake drill ever!
 
During earthquakes, drop to the floor, take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on to it firmly. Be prepared to move with it until the shaking stops.
 
The area near the exterior wall of a building is the most dangerous place to be. Windows and architectural details are often the first parts of the building to collapse. To stay away from this danger zone, stay inside if you are inside and outside if you are outside. 

If you are,
 
Indoors: Drop, cover, and hold on. If you are not near a desk or table, drop to the floor against the interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms. Avoid exterior walls, windows, hanging objects, mirrors, tall furniture, large appliances, and kitchen cabinets with heavy objects or glass. Do not go outside!
 
In bed: If you are in bed, hold on and stay there, protecting your head with a pillow. You are less likely to be injured staying where you are. Broken glass on the floor has caused injury to those who have rolled to the floor or tried to get to doorways.
 
In a high-rise: Drop, cover, and hold on. Avoid windows and other hazards. Do not use elevators. Do not be surprised if sprinkler systems or fire alarms activate.
 
Outdoors: Move to a clear area if you can safely do so; avoid power lines, trees, signs, buildings, vehicles, and other hazards.
 
Driving: Pull over to the side of the road, stop, and set the parking brake. Avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, signs and other hazards. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking is over. If a power line falls on the car, stay inside until a trained person removes the wire.
 
In a crowded store or other public place: Move away from display shelves containing objects that could fall. Do not rush for the exit.
 
In a stadium or theater: Stay at your seat and protect your head and neck with your arms. Don’t try to leave until the shaking is over. Then walk out slowly watching for anything that could fall in the aftershocks.
 
These are the recommendations of the American Red Cross to Drop, Cover and Hold On here in the U.S. The method of “triangle of life’ is not recommended.
 

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