The Great ShakeOut Drill
On Thursday, October 15 at 10:15 a.m., millions of people around the world will stop what they are doing to Drop, Cover, and Hold On. The Great ShakeOut is the world’s largest earthquake drill. For agents in California, Oregon, and Washington, it is a timely opening to help clients get prepared.
Why this is the right moment
During ShakeOut week, earthquake preparedness is in the news, at schools and in workplaces. Your clients are already thinking about what they would do if the ground started shaking. Many households still are not prepared, which makes this a natural, low-pressure reason to reach out with something genuinely useful.
10:15 on 10/15: Help Your Clients Get Ready for the Great ShakeOut
What to do when the shaking starts
- Drop onto your hands and knees
- Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk. If there’s none nearby, get down next to an interior wall and protect your head with your arms
- Hold On until the shaking stops
Staying safe also depends on where you are. In a car, pull over and set the parking brake. In bed, turn face down and cover your head with a pillow. Outdoors, stay away from buildings. Indoors, stay inside and avoid doorways.
Resources to share with your clients
- The Great ShakeOut. Remind clients to practice on October 15 and register at ShakeOut.org.
- GeoVera’s Earthquake Prep page. This page covers what to do before, during, and after an earthquake. geovera.com/earthquake-prep
- The home preparation infographic. This easy-to-forward PDF shares six essential tips for preparing a home, from anchoring heavy furniture to securing cabinets and keeping exits clear. Download the infographic
Make the most of October 15
A quick email or call to your clients this week can make a real difference. One minute of practice helps people react instinctively when it counts and your outreach shows clients you are looking out for them beyond the policy.