The annual Great California ShakeOut is coming to San Diego, encouraging residents to take proactive steps to prepare before, during and after an earthquake. Today, Oct. 16, at 10:16 a.m. local time, millions of people across the world will practice taking safety measures during earthquake drills at schools, workplaces and public spaces.

A regional event will also be held today from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Waterfront Park in Downtown. The City of San Diego’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) is joining Cal OES, the statewide emergency office, in inviting everyone to experience the intensity of a 7.0 earthquake in a shake trailer provided by Cal OES. Participants will also be able to practice their “drop, cover and hold on” routine.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there is a 99% chance of a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake striking California before 2044. San Diego County has a 93% chance of a major earthquake within 50 kilometers of the region within the next 50 years. The Rose Canyon Fault, which runs along the coast from La Jolla to Downtown, has an 18% probability of a magnitude 6.7 or larger earthquake occurring in the next 30 years.

“This annual event is a perfect reminder to make sure your family and loved ones have an emergency plan,” said Christopher Heiser, Executive Director of the City’s OES. “Whether it’s an earthquake, wildfire, flood, power outage or any other disaster, your home should be adequately supplied in case of an emergency. Resources are available to help San Diegans create their individual emergency plans and be prepared for a disaster.”

Along with an emergency plan to identify evacuation routes and safe meet-up locations, residents should have an emergency preparedness kit that can sustain them for at least 72 hours. The kit can include water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, a battery-operated radio, and other essential items, such as medications, cash, and necessities for children and pets. In a widespread disaster, emergency officials advise that resources will be strained and people may need to sustain themselves before help can arrive.

Whether at home or the workplace, preparedness is key. The City of San Diego has resources that will allow residents to make a plan, build a kit and stay informed during an earthquake or other emergency.

About OES

The City of San Diego's Office of Emergency Services strives to promote a secure and resilient City with the capabilities required across the whole community to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to and recover from threats and hazards that pose the greatest risk.