During the week of Oct. 13, UCOP California employees will join millions of Californians in the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill, a statewide preparedness event that helps us practice how to stay safe during an earthquake.

When to expect the drill

The UCOP drill timing is location-specific:

• UCPath: Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 10:16 a.m.
• Oakland: Thursday, Oct. 16, at 10:16 a.m.
• Sacramento: Thursday, Oct. 16, time TBD

In Oakland and at UCPath, the Building and Administrative Service Center team will announce the start and end of the drill.

What to do: General instructions

If you’re physically able, please follow three key safety steps recommended by ShakeOut.org:

1. DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked down and reduces your chances of being hit by falling or flying objects.
2. COVER your head and neck with one arm and hand. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall. Stay on your knees; bend over to protect vital organs.
3. HOLD ON until the shaking stops. If you’re under a shelter, hold on to it with one hand and be ready to move with your shelter if it shifts. If you don’t have shelter, hold on to your head and neck with both arms and hands.

What to do: Modified instructions

If you use a walker or wheelchair:
•  Lock your wheels (if applicable).
•  If using a walker, carefully get as low as possible.
•  Bend over and cover your head and neck with your arms, a book, or a pillow.
•  Hold on until the shaking stops.

If you have difficulty getting on the ground or cannot get back up again without help:
•  Find a place to sit, if possible, and bend over.
•  Cover your head and neck with your arms, a book or a pillow.
•  Hold on until the shaking stops.

Why UCOP participates in Great ShakeOut

This annual drill is a reminder that earthquakes can strike without warning — and preparation is the best protection. Practicing the steps to take during an emergency helps ensure we know what to do in a real event, which helps reduce injury and improve safety outcomes.

After the drill, staff are encouraged to review their personal and workplace emergency plans, check emergency supply kits, and discuss preparedness with family and colleagues.

Participation is simple, but the impact is significant: Our actions today can save lives tomorrow.

For more information on earthquake safety and preparedness resources, visit shakeout.org.

For questions about UCOP’s drill or to share any outcomes from the drill, contact Building Engineer Daniel Rugroden.

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