Drop, Cover, and Hold On!

Practicing Earthquake Safety with The Tech Interactive

On Thursday, October 16, The Tech Interactive joined millions of people around the world for the Great ShakeOut, the world’s largest earthquake drill. This annual event reminds us that while we can’t predict when the next big earthquake will strike, we can learn how to react quickly and safely when it happens.

Each October, on the third Thursday of the month, people across the globe “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” as part of the ShakeOut. The date also coincides with the anniversary of the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake, a powerful reminder of California’s seismic reality.

Shaking Things Out at The Tech

This year, more than 700 local students, teachers, parents, and community members gathered at The Tech Interactive for a day of hands-on learning and community preparedness. We were grateful to partner with a variety organizations including the American Red Cross, San Jose Fire Department, Cisco Crisis Response, California Geological Survey, SJSU Geology Department, City of San José Office of Emergency Management, and even the San Jose Earthquakes soccer team to bring earthquake preparedness and science to life.

The Tech Interactive has proudly participated in the Great ShakeOut for more than a decade. Taking part in the statewide drill in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and every year since 2022. Over the years, thousands of local students, teachers, and community partners have joined The Tech to learn how to stay safe during earthquakes through hands-on science and safety education.

Drop, Cover, and Hold On: The Three Steps That Save Lives

When the ground starts to move, remember these critical steps:

1. Drop to the ground before the earthquake knocks you down.

2. Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk (or use your arms if none is nearby).

3. Hold On to your shelter until the shaking stops.

These simple actions drastically reduce the risk of injury. According to ShakeOut.org, most earthquake injuries happen when people try to move or run during shaking.

Stay Alert with the MyShake App

The free MyShake App, developed by UC Berkeley, uses real-time seismic data to detect earthquakes. It can send early warnings to your phone seconds before shaking begins. Participants were encouraged to join the virtual 10:16 a.m. alert through the app and receive real earthquake warnings in the future.

Build Your Earthquake Emergency Kit

The Great ShakeOut is a reminder to be prepared year-round. Make sure your home has an emergency kit that’s easy to grab in a crisis. Don't forget to include:

• Water and nonperishable food

• Flashlight, batteries, and portable charger

• First aid kit and necessary medications

• Copies of important documents and some cash

• Sturdy shoes, gloves, and a blanket

Review your kit twice a year and ensure everyone knows where it’s kept.