At least 650,000 British Columbians have registered and are set to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” as the Great British Columbia ShakeOut (ShakeOut BC) earthquake drill returns on Oct. 16.
The annual event, considered Canada’s largest earthquake drill, aims to build the vital muscle memory needed for people to react instantly when a real earthquake strikes.
The primary public event will take place at the BC Legislature in Victoria, where organizers and officials will lead participants through the crucial safety steps at 10:16 a.m. PT.
This year’s theme, “If you are prepared for earthquakes, you are prepared for nearly anything,” underscores the broader importance of emergency readiness.
“Taking time to prepare for earthquakes helps keep people and communities safe when it matters most,” said Kelly Greene, minister of emergency management and climate readiness. “Participating in ShakeOut BC drills, building an emergency kit and making a home emergency plan are simple and effective ways for people to be ready for emergencies.”
Organized by the BC Earthquake Alliance Society (BCEA), the drill has taken on new importance with the implementation of the national Earthquake Early Warning system, which can provide notice before violent shaking begins.
Practicing the response is essential to leverage that minimal lead time, organizers said.
Erin Stockill, vice president of BCEA, noted the strong public commitment. “We’re thrilled to see so many British Columbians committed to preparedness, with hundreds of thousands already signed up for our latest BC ShakeOut... We encourage everyone in the province to join us – this practice could save your lives.”
The urgency of the drill is amplified by the known seismic risk facing the region.
According to Greg Moy, manager of government relations for the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), which sponsors the event, “Earthquakes pose a real threat to our communities, with a 30% chance of a strong, damaging earthquake striking southwestern British Columbia within the next 50 years. The time to prepare is now.”
Moy emphasized that practicing the response reinforces the importance of preparedness, helping residents to “respond quickly and effectively.”
Individuals, families, schools, and businesses are encouraged to register and hold their own drill wherever they are – at home, work, or school – by visiting www.ShakeOutBC.ca.
