International ShakeOut Day

ShakeOut.org leads the effort to promote International ShakeOut Day, observed every year on the third Thursday in October (in 2025 it will be October 16). The day is designed to teach people around the world how to prepare for and respond during earthquakes by participating in coordinated drills.

History of International ShakeOut Day

The roots of ShakeOut go back to California in 2008, when the Great Southern California ShakeOut drill was held on November 13 to engage millions in earthquake preparedness in homes, schools, businesses, and communities. The success of that event inspired broader efforts, and by 2009 the ShakeOut concept had expanded into an international phenomenon, with many regions adopting the third Thursday of October for the annual drill.

Over the years ShakeOut has grown into one of the world’s largest earthquake preparedness campaigns. Millions take part across dozens of countries, using the day to practice the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” method and to improve readiness for seismic events.

Why International ShakeOut Day is important

Earthquakes are unpredictable, and in many places they strike without warning. Having a practiced, intuitive response is crucial to reduce injuries and chaos when shaking begins. By designating a single day for global drills, ShakeOut helps transform earthquake preparedness from a theoretical idea into a tangible, practiced behavior—increasing the chances that people will act correctly under stress.

Moreover, the collective nature of the drills helps communities identify gaps in emergency plans, infrastructure weaknesses, and communication failures. It encourages schools, workplaces, and civic organizations to coordinate, update safety procedures, and foster a shared sense of responsibility. In doing so, ShakeOut emphasizes that preparation is not just individual but communal.

Here are some key reasons this day matters

• It builds muscle memory so the “right move” is more instinctive
• It brings attention to earthquake risks that many tend to ignore
• It encourages institutions (schools, offices, municipalities) to test plans
• It helps communities spot weak spots before a real disaster
• It connects people across regions in shared preparedness

How to Observe International ShakeOut Day

You don’t need to be in an earthquake‑prone region to join ShakeOut: you can participate anywhere to build awareness and readiness. On the designated day, schedule a drill in your home, school, office, or neighborhood. At a set time, everyone pauses what they’re doing, practices “Drop, Cover, and Hold On,” then reflects on how it went—what worked, what didn’t, and what could be improved.

Beyond the drill, use the occasion to review or build your emergency kit, map safe spots in your surroundings (indoor and outdoor), and plan communication strategies (how to reach others if lines are down). Sharing the drill with others—friends, family, neighbors—amplifies its impact. Encourage local groups, schools, and workplaces to register online and publicize their participation.

Some simple ideas to observe it

• Practice “Drop, Cover, Hold On” at home with your family
• Organize a mini drill in your office or school at the same time
• Review or assemble your earthquake emergency kit
• Walk through your space and identify safe zones and hazards
• Share your drill experience on social media or with community groups

International ShakeOut Day Dates Table