International Shakeout Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Earthquake

International Shakeout Day is observed on October 19 with the purpose of educating the public about the critical nature of immediate action in the event of an earthquake. This day, occurring on the third Thursday of October, continues to present the most advantageous occasion to acquire knowledge and apply strategies for safeguarding ourselves and ensuring the safety of our loved ones. Those who reside in regions prone to earthquakes understand how terrifying it can be when one experiences a sudden disturbance. Permit us to elucidate the significance of this day.

The background of International Shakeout Day

On November 13, 2008, California conducted its inaugural shakeout exercise, which was formerly referred to as The Great Southern California ShakeOut. Its purpose was to educate the extremely seismic state about earthquake safety. Over five million individuals participated in the exercise, with additional individuals contributing from countries prone to earthquakes around the world. Participation in Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills exceeded 55 million individuals in 2016 throughout the United States and over 60 other nations.

“Drop, Cover, and Hold On” is a technique frequently advocated by the ShakeOut organization as a critical means of safeguarding oneself and one’s precious ones during intense seismic incidents. Throughout the United States, medical and emergency organizations concur that “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” is the proper response to earthquakes in order to prevent loss of life and injury.
Placing oneself on the ground, concealing one’s head or body (preferably by stooping beneath a table), and grasping furniture constitute the method. You may be able to evacuate hazardous areas during less intense earthquakes, such as those prone to broken windows or falling hubris. “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” is the most practical guidance for safeguarding oneself in the majority of circumstances, considering the intricacies of earthquake dynamics and their impact on structures. Running outside or entering a doorway during an earthquake is not advised, due to the prevalence of accidents and damage caused by falling debris.

International ShakeOut Day was designated for the third Thursday of each month as its yearly observance date in 2009. ShakeOut drills may be conducted on alternative days as it is convenient for the location, and participants are required to perform the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drill.

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Five facts about Earthquakes

The majority of seismic events transpire at depths not exceeding 50 miles relative to the Earth’s surface.

Approximately 80% of the world’s seismic activity transpires in proximity to nations bordering the Pacific Ocean, an area colloquially referred to as the “Ring of Fire.”

Around 100 are sufficiently powerful to inflict significant harm.

In general, “Moonquakes” are less powerful than those observed on Earth.

The generation of tides within the Earth’s crust has the potential to induce subterranean earthquakes.