ShakeOut BC – Earthquake Preparedness

 

ShakeOut is a program created by the British Columbia Earthquake Alliance (BCEA) that allows individuals, communities, schools, and organizations to practice earthquake safety measures like “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” On October 17th at 10:17 a.m., ShakeOut will conduct an earthquake drill in preparation for a large one expected to hit this year due to climate change. 

In 2023, we at Inclusion BC experienced firsthand the effects of climate change when Kelowna went up in flames and had to evacuate during the Self Advocacy Leadership Institute. This experience highlighted the importance of being prepared for emergencies and always being ready. 

One way to ensure readiness is to develop a Personal Support Team (PST) who can assist you, like family or close friends. Grab and go back with food, water, and medications. Even having a list of medications you’re using can be helpful information after an emergency has passed. Many people with disabilities are left out of how they can feel safe and ready. Here are a few examples of how someone with a disability can be included during the ShakeOut drill and avoid potential risks. 

 

If inside a building:

1. Lock your walker or wheelchair.
2. Cover your head with a book or your arms.
3. Hold onto your mobility device.

If outside:

1. Stay away from trees and buildings.
2. Be aware of potential electrical hazards.
3. Sit and lock your mobility device if necessary.

There are many things to consider during an actual earthquake, like making sure everything is locked down in place, an emergency kit and how you will communicate with the people closest to you afterwards. 

Earthquakes can easily create a tsunami as a secondary wave of caution. So it is important to practice and be ready. This year, 13,000+ people are registered and participating in B.C. 

 

For more resources and information on how and where to sign up: 

Earthquake Preparedness BC | The Great British Columbia ShakeOut (shakeoutbc.ca)

ShakeOut_Earthquake_Guide_Disabilities_AFN DRAFT Update 02-2020 v3MB (shakeoutbc.ca)

ShakeOutBC_FactSheet_People_With_Disabilities.pdf

Earthquake Preparedness BC | PR & Resources | BC ShakeOut Canada (shakeoutbc.ca)

DABC-EPToolkitCMIST2016.pdf (disabilityalliancebc.org)

Emergency Preparedness | DABC (disabilityalliancebc.org)

 

 

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