Old Dominion University to Conduct Earthquake Preparedness Drill on October 17
Old Dominion University will conduct an earthquake preparedness drill on October 17 at 10:17 a.m., coinciding with “The Great Southeast ShakeOut”. Participants will practice the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” procedure, while the university tests its ODU Alerts system to improve safety and awareness. Individuals may register for alerts online, and inquiries regarding safety can be directed to ODU Emergency Management.
On Thursday, October 17, Old Dominion University (ODU) will host an earthquake preparedness drill in conjunction with the multistate event known as “The Great Southeast ShakeOut.” At precisely 10:17 a.m., students, faculty, and staff will engage in this synchronized exercise designed to enhance earthquake safety awareness. During this time, ODU will also conduct a semiannual test of its Emergency Notification System, referred to as ODU Alerts. The drill will involve various methods of official notification, including outdoor loudspeakers on the Norfolk main campus, text messages, desktop alerts on university computers, emails to students and faculty, and updates on the ODU website. It is important to note that the outdoor loudspeakers are intended solely for individuals outside, as the system does not penetrate building walls. Should inclement weather or a real emergency arise, the drill will be postponed until the next favorable business day at the same time. Students, faculty, and staff who have yet to register for alerts are encouraged to do so by visiting the ODU Alerts website at www.odu.edu/alerts. Participants will practice the recommended procedure of “Drop, Cover, and Hold On,” a guideline that instructs individuals caught in an earthquake to drop to the ground, seek shelter under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking ceases. Although the instinctive reaction may be to evacuate outside, this response is fraught with danger, as falling debris and dislodged building materials can pose significant risks. According to the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” procedure is the most effective way to respond to an earthquake in the United States. Over 762,000 residents of Virginia have registered for the 2024 Great Southeast ShakeOut, including over 69,000 in higher education and 23,000 within state government. Virginia has participated in this multistate drill since 2012, following a 5.8 magnitude earthquake that impacted the region, notably affecting nearly 4,500 individuals and damaging structures, including the Washington Monument, which required a $15 million repair investment. For further information regarding earthquake safety, individuals may visit www.odu.edu/emergency or www.shakeout.org/southeast. Any inquiries can be directed to ODU Emergency Management at [email protected] or by dialing 757-683-5116.
This article outlines an upcoming earthquake preparedness drill at Old Dominion University, showcasing the institution’s commitment to safety and preparedness in the face of natural disasters. The drill, part of a larger regional initiative, aims to educate participants about effective safety procedures during an earthquake and tests emergency notification systems to ensure readiness should a real event occur. The context of Virginia’s earthquake history underscores the significance of such preparedness efforts.
In conclusion, the earthquake preparedness drill at Old Dominion University on October 17 serves as a crucial step in educating and preparing students, faculty, and staff for potential seismic events. Through practicing the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” method and activating the ODU Alerts system, the university aims to enhance safety awareness and responsiveness among its community. Engaging in these drills is an integral part of fostering a culture of readiness and safety amidst the realities of natural disasters.
Original Source: www.odu.edu
