Local school takes part in largest earthquake drill

BRASHEAR, Mo. — Drop, cover and hold on.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey that’s the recommended method to protect yourself in an earthquake.

Located near the Missouri boot heel is an active earthquake region known as the New Madrid Seismic Zone.

This zone is where most of the central U.S earthquakes originate, along a 150-mile fault line.

Because of this active area the United States Geological Survey put out the word for Missouri schools, businesses and individuals to take part in the largest earthquake drill on Thursday.

The Great Central U.S. Shakeout was designed to teach preparedness and safety tips for earthquakes.

The Shakeout is a partnership of the Central United States Earthquake Consortium, each state participating in the drill, FEMA as well as several key organizations.

The Adair County R-II school in Brashear took part in the event and counselor Christy Grissom explained why they did.

One of our top priorities here at Brashear is to make sure we keep our kids safe. So anytime we can practice a drill or practice something that might happen, that just better prepares our kids in the event of an emergency.

Thursday morning at 10:19 students dropped below their desks, covered their head and neck and held on until the shaking stopped.

For more on the United States Geological Survey, click here.

For more information on the Shakeout event, click here.