What's Happening in Stroudsburg, PA…

Students near Stroudsburg recently took part in a drill designed to ensure they knew what steps to take should an earthquake occur.

The East Stroudsburg Area School District pupils and staff had been taught just what to do. They each ducked under their desk, using their hands to cover their heads, then, once they got the all clear, headed outside with their teachers.

This event was part of the third annual Great Shakeout, and according to Eric Forsyth, who is the director of administrative services for the school district, all of their building got involved.

The Great Shakeout took place all across the eastern U.S., and was organized by the United States Geological Services (USGS). More than 410,000 people took part, practicing the guidelines that have been developed by the USGS to drop, cover, and hold on should the tremors of an earthquake ever occur in the building they are currently in.

Students were taught to drop and shelter under a desk or against a wall if no cover was available. If they were outside, they were also instructed to find a clear and open area with nothing that could fall on them. A booklet printing company can create handouts of safety information for the children to take home with them to share with their parents.

The USGS notes that, while earthquakes are not common in the area, it is best to be prepared.