California Shakeout on October 20

On 10/20/11 at 10:20 a.m, millions of Californians (over 81,000 in Santa Barbara county alone who have registered with the Great California Shakeout website) are taking a moment to remember that they need to be earthquake ready. At 10:20 a.m., children in schools, employees in office buildings and families in their homes will “Duck, Cover, & Hold,” to rehearse emergency actions they should conduct immediately after an earthquake.

According to the County’s Emergency Operations Chief, Michael Harris, “This is a reminder to our residents that they have to be prepared.” Harris went on to say, “People must understand that local emergency resources will be overwhelmed, and that people need to prepare to take care of themselves for approximately five days. Our experience has been that people are simply not prepared; they have a strong sense of denial about the need for personal emergency preparation.”

Residents can learn more at www.shakeout.org. At this website people can find great information to help them be better prepared for the next disaster. By going to the “Play and Share” area, people can learn more about being prepared and test their knowledge. Individuals, organizations, and companies can also register to participate in the “Great California Shakeout” at the website.

Remember: 10/20 at 10:20!