Department Encourages Earthquake Preparedness Education
Nashville, TN – The Tennessee Department of Education joins the University of Memphis’ Center for Earthquake Research and Information in encouraging schools to be prepared in the event of an earthquake. West Tennessee is vulnerable to possible earthquakes due to a fault line in the region. Thirteen West Tennessee counties will be observing Earthquake Awareness Week Feb. 12-16.
“The safety and well-being of students is the foremost priority for schools,” Education Commissioner Lana Seivers said. “While we hope never to need an earthquake plan, it is important that teachers and students know how best to respond in an emergency.”
The purpose of Earthquake Awareness Week is to raise awareness about measures the public can take to maximize their safety should an earthquake occur. Public meetings and television and radio announcements will disseminate safety information throughout the week. The Web site www.itmattersareyouprepared.org/ explains how to prepare for an earthquake, and what actions to take during and after earthquake. The Tennessee Department of Education also provides emergency preparedness information at www.tennessee.gov/education/learningsupport/schsafetyctr/index.shtml.
“Schools have long been a partner in preparing young people for unexpected events,” said Mike Herrmann, Tennessee executive director for school safety and support services. “We appreciate the Center for Earthquake Research and Information for providing valuable educational materials to our West Tennessee students.”
The Center is providing teaching and preparedness materials to 196 schools in 13 West Tennessee counties. The participating counties include: Crockett, Dyer, Gibson, Fayette, Hardeman, Haywood, Lake, Lauderdale, Madison, Obion, Shelby, Tipton and Weakley. Schools in these counties have been encouraged to hold earthquake drills, teach ‘Drop, Cover and Hold’ and participate in an earthquake awareness poster contest.
For more information, contact Rachel Woods at (615) 253-1960 or Rachel.Woods@state.tn.us.