This Thursday, October 20, is International ShakeOut Day, and the Northshore Emergency Management Coalition (NEMCo) is joining in the largest global earthquake drill! As part of this drill, NEMCo will be testing the Alert Northshore system by sending out a test alert message via text and email at 10:20 AM to kick off the drill. If you are signed up to receive emergency updates, please expect a test alert to be sent out at this time. If you would like to sign up for emergency alerts in our area, please visit: https://www.kenmorewa.gov/services/emergency-preparedness/alert-northshore

Here is a message about earthquake preparedness from NEMCo's new Emergency Manager, Kevin Lowry:

With over 18 million people registered for the 2022 drill, I would like to invite the members of our community to ask themselves; If the ground began to shake strongly right now, would you know what to do to be safe? Would your family, neighbors, or co-workers? Are you prepared to survive and recover quickly?

Everyone, everywhere, should know how to protect themselves during earthquakes– at home, at work, at school, or even while traveling. The Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill is a once-a-year chance for everyone to practice how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” as well as learn other earthquake safety tips. To join NEMCo and the millions of people in schools, businesses, government agencies, organizations, and homes across the state and around the world, go to ShakeOut.org to register your family or organization. Registration is free, and most drills only take a few minutes. The website also has instructions for how to plan your drill and get prepared for earthquakes.

We’re all in this together, so be sure to invite everyone you know to also participate. Then “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” on October 20th!