British Columbians are being encouraged to take part in the annual Great BC ShakeOut earthquake drill today, Thursday, October 15th, as communities across the province practise how to respond safely during a major earthquake.

The province-wide exercise takes place at 10:15 a.m., giving individuals, families, schools, businesses and community organizations an opportunity to practise the recommended earthquake safety response: Drop, Cover and Hold On.

Participants are encouraged to drop to their hands and knees before shaking can knock them off their feet, take cover beneath a sturdy desk or table, and hold on for at least 60 seconds or until the simulated shaking ends.

Those who cannot reach a desk or table should protect their head and neck with their arms and remain in a safe position until the shaking stops.

Organizers say practising these actions in advance can help people respond quickly and instinctively during a real earthquake, when there may be little time to think about what to do.

British Columbia is Canada's most seismically active region, experiencing thousands of minor earthquakes each year.

While most are too small to be felt, the province remains at risk of larger, potentially damaging earthquakes.

The annual ShakeOut drill serves as an important reminder that earthquake preparedness goes beyond knowing how to react when the ground starts shaking.

Residents are encouraged to use the opportunity to review household emergency plans, check and replenish disaster supplies, and secure heavy furniture or objects that could fall during an earthquake.

Families should also consider how they would communicate and reconnect if separated during an emergency, particularly if phone networks or other services are disrupted.

Workplaces, schools and community organizations can use the drill to review evacuation procedures, identify potential hazards and ensure employees and participants understand their emergency response plans.

More than 868,000 British Columbians participated in last year's Great BC ShakeOut, highlighting the widespread involvement of communities across the province.

Organizers hope this year's exercise will encourage even more residents to take a few minutes to practise potentially life-saving actions and review their overall emergency preparedness.

Additional information, preparedness resources and registration details are available at Great BC ShakeOut.