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I KNOW WHEN THE NEXT EARTHQUAKE WILL STRIKE! Well, to be more exact, I know when the next drill for an earthquake will strike. At precisely 10:15 a.m. on April 17, 2012 a statewide earthquake exercise will be held in Utah. Similar drills have already been held throughout the United States, but this will be the first of its kind in Utah. The objective of the drill is self-preparedness. In the event of a large emergency, the services of the city are quickly overrun. For example, Murray City Fire Department operates three ambulances. Even without a disaster these ambulances are busy on a daily basis. In the event an earthquake hit the Salt Lake Valley, there could be thousands of people who need help simultaneously in the Murray area alone. It would be futile to think that all those in need would get the help they may require in a timely manner. That is the reason why it is so important for people and businesses to learn what they can do to help themselves in case of an emergency. So how do you get involved? Start off by registering on the 2012 Shakeout Website www.shakeout.org/utah. It only takes a few minutes. There have already been over 570,000 people in Utah that have signed up to participate! On the website, you can sign up as individuals, families, schools, businesses, and many other groups. You will also find articles that give suggestions on how you can become more prepared. Another helpful website is www.beready.utah.gov. Also, there is a great earthquake guide at http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/69fd78a2#/69fd78a2/12. What will Murray City departments be doing during the drill? Murray City will activate their Emergency Operation Center (EOC). In the EOC, the Mayor and department heads get together to determine the state of the city and prioritize needs. For this drill, we will be simulating a mass-causality situation and conduct a structural collapse drill. In addition, power outages, street blockages, and communication problems will also be simulated. Just like in a real disaster, all of the City’s resources will be in high demand at once! This drill is a way for the City to try and manage those demands. So, sign up today, it only takes a few minutes. Be a part of changing the culture of “waiting for help” to “being prepared”. Remember on April 17th to “Drop!, Cover! ,and Hold On!”