‘Drop, cover and hold’

By Kenia Cabahug
Staff Writer

Cal State Dominguez Hills plans to participate in the annual Great California Shakeout at 10:19 a.m Oct. 19. Why on Oct. 19? The drill takes place every third Thursday in October.
Not only will millions of Californians practice how to “drop, cover and hold,” but millions of people worldwide will be joining this event as well. According to ShakeOut.org, there are over 52 million global participants.
The event is an annual opportunity to practice how to be safe during big earthquakes.
In California, earthquakes can happen anytime, and practicing earthquake safety is considered important.
“Drop, cover and hold on” is a phrase that has been taught worldwide.
Here are the motives behind it in case of an earthquake. According to ShakeOut.org you are encouraged to drop to the ground (before the earthquake drops you.) Take cover, by getting under a sturdy desk or table. And hold on to it until the shaking stops.
This program has been designed to organize and encourage you, your schools, communities and other organizations to go over and update your emergency-preparedness plans and supplies.
The ShakeOut will last for about one minute, but the time may vary depending on your school, work or organization.
So, remember, Toros, whether you are on campus, work, or home at 10:19 a.m. Oct. 19, “drop, cover and hold!”