Media Release: The Great Shake Out Earthquake Preparedness Event
As the Great ShakeOut earthquake preparedness event approaches, Geoscience Australia and the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) are urging the community to enhance earthquake awareness and safety measures. With Western Australia experiencing the highest frequency of earthquakes in Australia, understanding how to respond effectively can be critical for safety.
Important Guidance for Earthquake Preparedness
DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm emphasized the urgency of preparedness. “Earthquakes strike without warning, and knowing how to react quickly is essential. The safest practice is to drop, cover, and hold on,” he stated. This involves:
- Dropping to the ground.
- Crouching under a sturdy desk or table.
- Holding on until the shaking stops.
If outdoors, individuals should move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
Educational Resources for Schools
For the first time, DFES has created audio drills targeted at schools to assist students in recognizing earthquake safety procedures. Additionally, Geoscience Australia offers free resources for conducting Great ShakeOut drills in schools, workplaces, and community organizations.
Real-Time Earthquake Notifications
To enhance safety measures, DFES has launched earthquake notifications through the Emergency WA website and mobile app. This initiative allows Western Australians to receive real-time updates about earthquakes, including:
- Location
- Magnitude
- Depth
Users can activate alerts for watch zones and natural disasters to ensure they are informed promptly. Moreover, Emergency WA allows residents to submit Felt Reports to Geoscience Australia, thereby improving data on earthquake impacts.
Commitment to Public Safety
Geoscience Australia’s CEO, Melissa Harris, highlighted the importance of reliable earthquake information for community confidence. “Our continuous monitoring provides essential insights that help build resilience against the risks of earthquakes nationwide,” she mentioned.
Historical Context and Participation
Since the formation of the National Seismograph Network (ANSN) in 1994, Western Australia has recorded 181 earthquakes with a magnitude exceeding 4.0. Notably, a 6.6 magnitude earthquake near Broome in 2019 is the largest recorded to date, felt as far away as Perth.
The Great ShakeOut event coincides with Geoscience Australia’s Earth Science Week, taking place from October 12 to 18. Schools are encouraged to register and acquire handy earthquake drill materials through Emegypt.
