Wyoming to Participate in the Great Shake Out

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (Wyoming News Now) - Wyoming is not a state we often consider being known for their Earthquakes, but it can happen. Wyoming will be one of the many states across the country participating in the nationwide Great Shake Out. This drill is to allow those, particularly in earthquake prone areas, to know what to do in the event an earthquake does occur.

Although Wyoming is not a state that normally sees earthquakes, there are fault lines that exists across Wyoming. According to Teton County Emergency Management Coordinator Rich Ochs, the “Teton Range is a very large fault” that lies in northwest Wyoming. In fact, the fault along the Teton Range, known as the Grand Valley Fault “has not caused an earthquake during human existence, so we do not know what it is capable of” Ochs states.

Yellowstone is another prone area for earthquakes to occur. In fact, this is where Wyoming experiences the most earthquakes.

Ochs advises everyone to participate in this drill as it is a great skill to know and have. Even though you may not live in a earthquake area, it can prepare you if you do travel to an earthquake prone area. Practice by dropping down, taking cover underneath a heavy piece of furniture, and hold on. Even for just a few seconds, this is good practice.

The drill is scheduled for October 19th at 10:19 AM.

You can also sign up for free earthquake resources, safety tips, and reminders leading up to the drill at www.shakeout.org/wyoming.