Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster, other City Officials and the Long Beach Fire Department encourage all City employees, residents, businesses, schools and visitors to participate in the "Great California ShakeOut" on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 10:15 am. This event, similar to last year's event, will be one of the largest earthquake drills ever planned and simulated in California.

At 10:15 am on Thursday, October 15, 2009, millions of people in government offices, homes, businesses, schools, and public places throughout California will "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" during a simulated drill of what we would do during a real, significant earthquake. You can actually play this video file during the drill time to help you simulate an actual quake:


An earthquake of this magnitude could shake for as long as two minutes, with a sharp jolt of a few seconds before the strong shaking occurs. This is why it is imperative to act immediately at the first signs of an earthquake. Unprecedented damage would occur, with the potential for a large loss of life, numerous injuries, and a long-lasting disruption of services.

Organized by the Earthquake Country Alliance, this simulated earthquake drill will help us better understand how an earthquake of this magnitude could affect our homes, neighborhoods, businesses, and schools. It will provide us with valuable information on what we are doing right, and how we can make improvements to be better prepared in the future.

To participate, please visit www.shakeout.org and register so you can be added to the total number participating, and also receive updates and information about the drill. The site features specific information for businesses, schools, families, individuals, a calendar of events, and information how you can go even farther with your participation.

Also, in case you're not already scared as hell of the next big quake this video sure as hell will do that, but hey it's still probably some pretty good info to know, so WATCH IT!