Saanich encourages an accessible approach to earthquake preparedness

October 14, 2025

News release
For immediate release

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich emphasizes inclusive earthquake preparedness this year by reminding residents to reflect on how they can make their Great British Columbia ShakeOut plans more accessible for everyone in their family.

"ShakeOut offers an ideal moment for residents to evaluate their emergency preparedness and consider the diverse needs of their family members," stated Erin Stockill, Emergency Program Officer. "There are numerous straightforward and accessible steps everyone can take to be ready for an emergency, from creating a grab-and-go bag to discussing an emergency plan that considers the needs of everyone."

For those who have limited mobility or are unable to "Drop, Cover, and Hold On," for any reason, there are accessible alternatives to practice, including:

  • For wheelchair users, lock the wheels, stay seated, and cover your head and neck.
  • For people who use a walker, remember to get low, protect your head and neck and hold on.
  • For those in bed when an earthquake occurs, stay there and shield your head and neck with a pillow or blanket.

Event details

The Great British Columbia ShakeOut, happening on Thursday, October 16 at 10:16 a.m., is an annual event where individuals, communities, schools and organizations practice essential earthquake safety measures.

As part of the ShakeOut drill, Saanich staff will practice earthquake safety along with over a million British Columbians on the specified date and time. Whether at home or work, residents are encouraged to plan, prepare and participate, utilizing accessible methods tailored to their needs.

Quick facts

  • Saanich showcases the emergency notification page on saanich.ca twice per year: on ShakeOut Day and during Emergency Preparedness Week in May.

    • This page is enabled in the event of an emergency and provides residents with important information prior to accessing any Saanich web page.
  • In 2024, Natural Resources Canada and partners developed a national Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) System. The Canadian EEW system will automatically notify BC’s residents and visitors through the National Public Alerting System, giving the public a few seconds to drop, cover and hold on. Learn more here: Canadian Earthquake Early Warning System - Shakeout BC

Learn more: 

  • For more information or to register for ShakeOut BC, please visit: shakeoutbc.ca. 
  • To view the emergency notification page during ShakeOut BC, please visit: saanich.ca. 
  • To learn more about emergency preparedness, presentations or volunteering with the Saanich Emergency Program, contact 250-475-7140.

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Media contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca