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Hospitals Will Test Earthquake Readiness in Great ShakeOut Drill

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Hospitals throughout California will participate in the annual Great ShakeOut drill Oct. 17. Intended to help Californians prepare for the next big earthquake, the drill is an opportunity for hospitals to review and update their plans for preventing and minimizing damage and injuries, and to improve their continuity of operations if an earthquake happens. 

Earlier this year, Ridgecrest Hospital’s earthquake readiness allowed it to withstand the effects of a major quake and safely care for and transport patients – a reminder that earthquakes hit with no advance warning and advance preparation is key. Hospitals not built in one of the high-risk fault zones can also benefit from the drill by preparing their facility as a receiving center for hospitals that are at greater risk during a major earthquake.

To register, visit www.shakeout.org/california/. Those participating in the drill can also visit the website for messaging resources in English and Spanish, as well as a drill manual and other resources.