Gov. Jay Inslee says it’s the public’s turn to do its part for personal preparedness and to practice drop, cover and hold on skills.

Inslee proclaimed October as Washington State Disaster Preparedness Month, which is highlighted by the Great Washington ShakeOut earthquake drill at 10:20 a.m., on Thursday, Oct. 20. The drill emphasizes the urgent need for people, organizations, schools, communities and businesses to practice what to do to be safe and to be ready before an earthquake strikes.

In addition, coastal communities will test their tsunami alert sirens at the same date and time using the real sound of the siren, not the Westminster Chimes that typically happen during the monthly tests. NOAA weather radios set to receive the required monthly test will also activate during this test.

“In June, our region’s public agencies and first responders come together during Cascadia Rising and put our preparedness plans to the test,” Inslee said. “Now individuals and families need to prepare as well. This is the perfect time to check to make sure your emergency kits are up to date, that your business has a continuity plan or that you’ve designated an out-of-area contact in case our local cell towers are down.

“Most important is learning the right way to protect yourself – practice dropping down, covering your neck and getting under a desk or table and holding on until after the earthquake ends,” he said.

People and organizations can sign up to participate at www.shakeout.org/washington. To date, more than 900,000 have registered. Last year, more than 1 million residents registered.

Preparedness will be key in surviving the next big earthquake to hit the Pacific Northwest. That means being prepared for what you need and where you live – with up to two weeks’ worth of supplies and an emergency “go” kit ready and, for those living on the coast, have an understanding of evacuation routes and the warning signs behind tsunamis – including how NOAA Weather Radio works and the coastal sirens.

This is the fifth year for Washington State to participate in the Great ShakeOut initiative.