Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill 2026

Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill 2026
The Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill 2026 will take place on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Franklin Academy. This important School Community Event is part of the nationwide Great ShakeOut initiative, helping students, faculty, and staff practice earthquake safety procedures and emergency preparedness.
As a school located in California, Franklin Academy recognizes the importance of preparing for earthquakes and other emergencies. Participating in the Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill helps ensure our school community is familiar with established safety procedures and understands how to respond calmly and confidently during an earthquake.
Preparing for Earthquake Safety
The safety and well-being of our students and staff are top priorities at Franklin Academy. Earthquake preparedness is an essential part of maintaining a safe learning environment, and participating in the annual Great ShakeOut reinforces the importance of being ready before an emergency occurs.
During the drill, students and staff will practice the recommended “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” earthquake safety procedure. Regular practice helps students become familiar with emergency expectations while building confidence in their ability to respond appropriately during an earthquake.
By participating in the Great ShakeOut each year, Franklin Academy helps create a culture of preparedness and resilience throughout our school community.
What Students Can Expect
During the Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill, teachers and staff will guide students through each step of the earthquake response procedure in a calm and supportive manner.
Students can expect:
- Teacher-led earthquake safety instructions
- Practice using the Drop, Cover, and Hold On procedure
- Guidance from school administrators and faculty
- An organized and supervised emergency preparedness exercise
- Opportunities to ask questions and learn about earthquake safety
The drill is conducted as a preparedness exercise and is designed to help students understand emergency procedures without causing unnecessary concern.
Why Earthquake Drills Matter
Earthquake drills help students develop familiarity with emergency procedures before an actual emergency occurs. Regular practice allows students and staff to respond more quickly and confidently while reducing uncertainty during unexpected situations.
These drills also provide school administrators with opportunities to review emergency response plans and strengthen campus preparedness. By practicing together, students and staff help create a safer school environment for everyone.
Franklin Academy remains committed to maintaining a secure campus where students can focus on learning while families have confidence in the school’s dedication to safety and emergency preparedness.
Partnering with Families for Safety
Creating a safe learning environment is a shared responsibility between school and home. We encourage families to discuss earthquake preparedness with their children and develop emergency plans for home as well.
By working together, schools and families can help children understand the importance of preparedness while reinforcing practical safety habits that can be used throughout their lives.
Franklin Academy is proud to participate in the annual Great ShakeOut and remains committed to providing a safe, supportive, and prepared learning environment for every student.
School Community Event Information
Date: Thursday, October 15, 2026
Event: Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill 2026
Location:
Franklin Academy
26 Lake Rd.
Irvine, CA 92604
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