Sirens will sound during earthquake drill

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Tsunami sirens will be sounded in Jefferson County during this year’s Great Washington Shakeout, officials with the Jefferson County Emergency Management have announced.

The annual earthquake drill is planned for 10:15 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 15 and residents are being encouraged to participate.

Emergency officials said residents can practice what to do during an earthquake — “Drop, Cover and Hold” — and being ready for a ground-shaking quake can help save lives.

“Even though we are in the middle of a pandemic, it’s important to prepare for other disasters like earthquakes and wildfires,” said Jefferson County Emergency Management Director Willie Bence. 

“Consider the many things we have learned about preparedness these past months,” Bence added. “This is a good time to review your family disaster plan and make sure you have sufficient needed supplies to include food and water; first aid kit, flashlight and batteries; portable radio; blankets or sleeping bags.”

Emergency officials also note residents can sign up for local emergency alerts from the Department of Emergency Management via Nixle. To subscribe, text JEFFCODEM to 888777.

Families can read more about developing a disaster plan and building a Go-Kit from the department’s “Think, Plan, Do” guide, available at bit.ly/thinkplando.