The Great Central U.S. ShakeOut takes place on Thursday, Oct. 19, at 10:19 a.m.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is reminding Hoosiers that it’s not too late to register and participate in this opportunity to practice earthquake safety.

Individuals and communities throughout the Central U.S. region will take part in the drill by practicing the recommended response to an earthquake, “Drop, Cover and Hold On”:

• DROP to the ground;
• Take COVER under a sturdy desk or table; and
• HOLD ON until the shaking stops.

Indiana is exposed to a serious threat of earthquakes along the New Madrid Seismic Zone, located 180 miles southwest of Evansville, and the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone, which encompasses parts of Southeastern Illinois and Southwestern Indiana, according to the IDHS.

Hoosiers can use the days leading up to the ShakeOut to check for items in their homes or workplaces that could become dangerous during an earthquake, such as top-heavy or unsecured furniture or appliances.

For more information about earthquake safety and disaster preparedness, visit GetPrepared.in.gov.