A regional earthquake preparedness drill – the Great Central U.S. Shakeout – will be held February 7 and Middle Tennessee area residents are encouraged to take part and learn what supplies to have on hand and what to do if an earthquake strikes.

The Great Central U.S. Shakeout is a coordinated drill that will take place February 7 at 10:15 a.m. local time.

“You could be anywhere when an earthquake happens,” said Joel Sullivan, Regional CEO, Tennessee Volunteer Region. “Households, businesses and schools should take this opportunity to create or update their emergency plans and to practice what to do in case of an earthquake.”

View a map of "real time" earthquake activity here

Download Free Red Cross Earthquake App

The free American Red Cross Earthquake App, available in English and Spanish, gives users access to real-time information so they know what to do before, during and after earthquakes. Of course in the event of an earthquake, WGNS will broadcast special information to our listeners "LIVE." We will also be "on the air" with Red Cross and Rutherford County Emergency Management representatives during and after any natural disaster. 

Features of the new Red Cross app include:

• Simple steps and checklists people can use to create a family emergency plan;
• Earthquake epicenter location, impact magnitude and local geographical impact data provided by the U.S. Geological Survey;
• A “Shake Zone Impact Map” that provides real-time, simplified impact assessment when available;
• Preloaded content that gives users instant access to critical action steps, even without mobile connectivity;
• One-touch “I’m safe” messaging that allows users to inform family and friends via social media outlets that they are out of harm’s way;
• Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm; and
• Locations of open Red Cross shelters.

Additional earthquake safety tips are available at redcross.org/prepare. People can learn more about the ShakeOut at shakeout.org/centralus.