Millions of Californians to have earthquake drills Thursday

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 18 (Xinhua) -- Millions of people in the western U.S. state of California will participate in earthquake drills and practice life-saving actions on Thursday, according to the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES).

Oct. 19, this Thursday, marks the Great California ShakeOut Day, when drills are planned to encourage people to practice how to protect themselves during earthquakes in order to reduce injuries and even loss of life.

At 10:19 a.m. local time Thursday, millions of Californians will participate in earthquake drills at work, school, or home, and practice life-saving actions like drop, cover and hold on.

"California has long led the nation in innovative disaster preparedness efforts. During this year's Great ShakeOut, we want to encourage every Californian to take action to keep themselves and their families safe," said Cal OES Director Nancy Ward.

Cal OES is also launching a statewide, seven-stop tour from Oct. 11 to 19, bringing a shake simulator capable of replicating a 7.0 magnitude earthquake to cities across the state, where first responders will provide life-saving earthquake preparedness tips.