Many areas around the world are prone to earthquakes. So, whether you live in Washington or not, you could find yourself impacted by an earthquake - at home, at work, at school, or even on vacation. This reality confronts all of us with a critical question: "Are you prepared to survive and to recovery quickly?"
ShakeOut earthquake drills are an opportunity to practice how to be safer during earthquakes. The Great Washington ShakeOut has been organized to encourage families, schools, organizations and even entire communities to upgrade emergency plans and supplies, and to secure your space in order to prevent damage and injuries.
When is the 2025 ShakeOut?
This year's International ShakeOut Day is October 16, 2025 at 10:16 am (local time). While organizers prefer to coordinate a single "shake out" practice, they allow entities to register their ShakeOut drill for any day of the year and drill at a time that they find most convenient. This means that wherever you are at the date and time you designate—at home, at work, at school, anywhere—you should practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On (see below) as if there were a major earthquake occurring at that very moment, and stay in this position for one minute.
You can always do much more for your ShakeOut, such as a response or tabletop exercise, communications test, or activity in which you secure items that could fall or fly in a real earthquake. Learn more at ShakeOut.org.
The main goal of the ShakeOut is to get the world prepared for earthquakes so use the ShakeOut as an opportunity to learn what to do before, during, and after an earthquake. Everyone, everywhere should participate, from an individual in their home (or even car!) to a school and even a major corporate office. Talk to your friends, family, and co-workers about the ShakeOut and encourage their participation.
How do I protect myself in an earthquake? I have heard about Drop, Cover, and Hold On, but what happened to the "Doorframe" or "Triangle of Life" theory? Why shouldn't I run outside?
The safest thing to do during an earthquake is "Drop, Cover, and Hold On". Officials do not recommend using the "Triangle of Life" theory, running outside or getting into a doorway. This is based off of years of research on earthquake-related injuries and fatalities.
How do I register for ShakeOut? Why should I?
Washington has the 2nd highest earthquake risk in the United States. We in the HSD take the safety of our staff and students very seriously. We also care about our families and neighbors. Therefore, our schools participate in this drill and we encourage others to sign up as well. Why?To react quickly, you must practice often. You may only have seconds to protect yourself in an earthquake before strong shaking knocks you down or drops something on you. Practicing helps all of us be ready to respond. Homes, groups, and businesses can register for free at shakeout.org/register to be counted and listed in your community!
