USVI earthquake drill and phone-alert test set for 10:15 a.m.

The Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency is encouraging residents, schools, businesses and community groups to participate in the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill at 10:15 a.m. Thursday, October 15.

Participants can practise Drop, Cover and Hold On: get down on hands and knees, protect the head and neck under a sturdy desk or table or beside an interior wall, and hold the position for at least one minute or until the simulated shaking ends.

VITEMA says an Emergency Alert System test will send a test message to phones during the exercise. The systemwide message is separate from Alert VI, and residents do not need to opt in to receive it.

The alert and drill are tests, not notice that an earthquake is occurring. The agency also recommends reviewing household plans, securing heavy furniture and checking emergency supplies outside the brief exercise window.