Thousands across Missouri will observe a statewide “ShakeOut” earthquake drill in October,

The “ShakeOut” drill will take place at 10:17 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17, with over 260,000 residents registered to participate in the exercise.

Earthquakes are a possibility due to Missouri’s large seismic area. Of 14 central states, Missouri is one that possibly could be impacted by a New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ) earthquake. According to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the “primary cause of damage and injuries during an earthquake is the destruction of manmade structures and their contents.”

With earthquakes, studies have shown that falling debris is the most common way of being injured in developed countries. The “Drop, Cover, and Hold on” method is the best way to protect yourself from this threat:

• Drop to your hands and knees.

• Cover your head and neck with your hands and arms under a table or desk if you can; and

• Hold on until the shaking stops

Groups such as schools, businesses, community groups and others can register to participate in the drill at www.shakeout.org/centralus. After signing up, participants will be regularly updated on the drill as well as information about earthquake safety and ways to prepare.