Oklahomans Encouraged To 'Shake Out' During Drill

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and Oklahoma Geological Survey want Oklahomans to join a nine-state earthquake drill.

The event, known as "Drop, Cover, and Hold On," is being held Tuesday, February 7, at 10:15 a.m. It's part of the second annual Great Central U.S. ShakeOut. Governor Mary Fallin has also proclaimed that day as Earthquake Awareness Day in Oklahoma.

Officials said the ShakeOut exercise is designed to help Oklahomans be better prepared for earthquakes. The state has experienced a recent increase in quake activity, and felt its strongest earthquake ever in November 2011.

11/5/2011 Related Story: More Aftershocks Sunday, After Oklahoma's Largest Earthquake Saturday

"In this state, we recognize the importance of being prepared for all types of disasters, including earthquakes, which is why we are taking part in this regional exercise," said OEM Director Albert Ashwood. "We applaud Oklahomans for their eagerness to join us in this effort."

More than 45,000 people have already signed up to participate in the drill, including 134 Oklahoma schools, government agencies and other organizations.

Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Tennessee are also participating in the drill.

Register here for the ShakeOut earthquake drill.