Central Missouri is a place residents consider themselves safe from most natural disasters. According to a State Emergency Management Agency news release, a major earthquake could result in damage through much of southern and eastern Missouri.
Almost 450,000 Missouri schools, business and individuals are registered to participate in the Great Central U.S. Shake Out earthquake drill Thursday.
"The thing about earthquakes is, unlike other disasters, they occur with no warning," Jeff Briggs said.
Briggs is the SEMA earthquake program manager in Jefferson City. He said every third Thursday of October is when thousands follow the easy earthquake safety drill.
At 10:18 a.m., participants should use the "Drop, Cover, Hold On" technique. If an earthquake is happening:
Drop to the ground.
Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture.
Protect your head with your arms.
Hold on to furniture until the shaking stops.
Briggs said student participation in a learning environment is good and increases the possibility of information being shared within families. Participating school districts include California, Prairie Home and Jamestown.
"All schools in the state of Missouri are encouraged to have a certain number of safety drills," Jamestown Superintendent Gretchen Guitard said.
Individuals and businesses can take precautions now, before an earthquake is a threat. Experts suggest securing objects that may fall over, like a water heater, to the wall. Most common objects that cause injury during earthquakes include large bookshelves, debris and light fixtures.
"It's important to prepare your home ahead of time so when that shaking starts, you're already going to be prepared," Briggs said.