Gov. encourages earthquake preparedness

RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) - Gov. Bob McDonnell is calling on Virginians to practice their management and preparedness for an earthquake Oct. 18.

According to the Governor's office, the event is called the Great SouthEast ShakeOut, where residents of Virginia, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Maryland and Washington, D.C. will practice how to react to an earthquake at approximately 10:18 a.m.

"Whether you are at home, at school or at work on Oct. 18, I encourage you to stop whatever you are doing at 10:18 a.m. and take part in the Great SouthEast ShakeOut," Gov. McDonnell said. "Earthquakes don't give us warnings and practicing what to do will help us all remember how to be safe the next time the ground shakes."

Experts say the best way to protect yourself during an earthquake is the Drop, Cover and Hold On method which is:

• Drop to the ground
• Take cover under a sturdy desk or table, protecting your head and neck
• Hold on to it until the shaking stops

You can learn more about the initiative and earthquake preparedness here.