Residents across Port Coquitlam are encouraged to take part in the largest earthquake drill in B.C. on Wednesday, October 16 at 10:16 a.m. as part of the Great British Columbia ShakeOut.
Organized by the BC Earthquake Alliance Society, ShakeOut BC offers an opportunity to practise the “Drop, Cover and Hold On” earthquake response and review personal and workplace emergency preparedness, whether at home, school, work, or on the go.
Emergency Alert Test: October 16 at 10:30 a.m.
Following the drill, the City of Port Coquitlam will issue a City-wide test alert through its emergency notification system, Alertable, at 10:30 a.m. This is the City’s third public test of the system, which is designed to provide residents with timely emergency specific information, such as evacuation alerts, public safety updates, and recovery resources.
Registered users will receive the test via SMS text, phone call, email, or in-app notification based on their selected preferences. To sign up or learn more, visit portcoquitlam.ca/alertable.
Why ShakeOut BC Is Important
More than 5,000 earthquakes occur in Canada each year, with many happening in seismically active areas like British Columbia. While most are minor, at least nine major earthquakes with magnitudes of 7 or more have been recorded in or near Canada over the past century.
The City encourages all residents to hold drills in their homes, schools, or workplaces to ensure readiness in the event of a real emergency.
How to participate:
At 10:16 a.m. on October 16:
- Visit shakeoutbc.ca to register as a participant and download tools and resources, including drill sound effects and preparedness tips.
- Encourage your household, neighbours, and co-workers to join in.
- Practise the “Drop, Cover and Hold On” earthquake protocol:
- Drop to the ground;
- Cover under a sturdy desk or table (or protect your head and neck with your arms while crouching in a safe interior corner);
- Hold On for 60 seconds. During this time, imagine what would happen in a real earthquake—note what might fall or block exits, and identify safety improvements needed.
After the drill, review what steps to take once the shaking stops.
How to Prepare for an Earthquake
- Conduct a hazard hunt at home or work to identify and secure objects that could fall during an earthquake.
- Create or update your emergency plan. Visit gov.bc.ca/preparedbc for resources.
- Check and refresh your emergency kits. Remember, you may be away from home when an earthquake occurs and could need to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.
- Review your home’s structural safety and make improvements if needed.
- Visit shakeoutbc.ca for additional preparedness steps.
Being prepared helps reduce injury, protect property, and ensure faster recovery in the event of a major disaster. Visit portcoquitlam.ca/ep for more information and resources on emergency preparedness.
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