MONTREAL, Sept. 19, 2017 /CNW Telbec/ - In exactly one month, the Great ShakeOut, an international earthquake preparedness drill, will take place. The many millions taking part in the Great ShakeOut will Drop, Cover and Hold On, three steps that could save lives the day the earth does shake.
Once again this year, the Association de sécurité civile du Québec (ASCQ) and Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) are promoting la Grande Secousse (Great ShakeOut) and are encouraging Quebecers to register and participate in large numbers in this drill, which will take just a minute of their time, but make all the difference in case of a quake.
The risks are very real
Why prepare yourself for a quake if you live in Quebec? Because each year, Eastern Canada averages about 450 quakes, and Quebec is no exception. It is therefore very important to develop good reflexes now so that you know what to do right away when a large quake hits.
IBC, which has made earthquake awareness one of its priorities, is inviting the public to register for the Great Quebec ShakeOut and practice the three steps recommended to protect oneself, at home, at work or at school.
"In 1988, a quake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale struck the Saguenay region, causing damage all the way to Montreal. Fortunately, there were no victims. But if such a quake were to hit today in a more densely populated region, the lack of preparedness could have dramatic consequences on people's lives", noted Pierre Babinsky, Director, Public Affairs at Insurance Bureau of Canada.
As event organizer, the Association de sécurité civile du Québec (ASCQ) would like the Great Quebec ShakeOut exercise to be recognized by all, just like annual evacuation drills.
"As well as informing the population about what to do if a quake hits, we also hope that the drill makes citizens more aware about public safety and encourages them to be prepared in case of a disaster. Are we ready to deal with an exceptional situation?", said Mrs. Louise Bradette, President of ASCQ, and Director of Public Safety and Chief Resilience Officer at the city of Montreal.
This year, for the 5th edition of the event in Quebec, schools, individuals and organizations that register before October 19 could win one of the fabulous prizes in the draw to be held on October 23, 2017.
Click here to see the Grande Secousse promotional video (in French only).
About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada, which groups the majority Canada's P&C insurers, offers various services to consumers in order to inform and assist them when purchasing car or home insurance, or making a claim.
About Association de sécurité civile du Québec
The mission of Association de sécurité civile du Québec is to serve its members by creating a network of contacts, provide training, highlight expertise and promote good public safety practices in Quebec. Supported by highly experienced members, the Association de sécurité civile du Québec plays a leadership role and is a pivotal forum for promoting public safety excellence in Quebec through enhanced resilience.
SOURCE Association de sécurité civile du Québec (ASCQ)
IBC Information: Caroline Phémius, Public Affairs Consultant, Tel.: 514 288-1563, ext. 2232; ASCQ Information: Julie Pergallino, Secretariat, La Grande Secousse du Québec (ASCQ), Email: [email protected], Tel. : 514-586-1286
Share this article