ShakeOut BC: Province-Wide Earthquake Drill Tests Readiness Across Communities

Thousands of British Columbians will pause their routines this week for the annual Great British Columbia ShakeOut, a province-wide earthquake drill designed to test how prepared residents are for a major seismic event.

At exactly 10:16 a.m. on October 16, schools, businesses, and households across B.C. will practice the familiar “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” routine, simulating what to do in the critical first seconds of an earthquake. Originating in California over a decade ago, ShakeOut has become a vital annual event for B.C., located along the Cascadia Subduction Zone.

Building a Culture of Preparedness

Officials stress that preparedness is key to saving lives. Despite warnings from experts, many residents lack emergency kits or family communication plans. This year’s ShakeOut encourages everyone to take action:

• Check and update emergency supplies.
• Learn your community’s emergency alert system.
• Talk with family about where to meet after a quake.

Strengthening B.C.’s Emergency Readiness

Coordinated readiness involves governments, first responders, and infrastructure providers. The province continues to invest in seismic upgrades, alert systems, and emergency training, though more support is needed for rural regions.

The ShakeOut reminds everyone that preparedness must happen before disaster strikes. Each annual drill brings the province closer to a safer, more resilient future.

— News Desk, Thompson Current