Schools, businesses, families and individuals in the Ashburton District are being encouraged to take part in the national earthquake drill next week.

People are encouraged to Drop, Cover and Hold all at the same time at 9.30am on Thursday 16 October as part of ShakeOut 2025.

Drop, Cover and Hold stops you being knocked over, makes you a smaller target for flying and falling objects and protects your head, neck and vital organs.

You can prepare in advance by identifying a safe space, like under a strong table or next to an interior wall, to take refuge in a quake.

Civil Defence controller and Group Manager of Compliance and Development Ian Hyde said earthquakes were in the top five emergency risks for the district.

“We can’t predict when earthquakes will happen, but scientists tell us the South Island’s Alpine Fault has a regular history of producing large earthquakes, so we need to be prepared.”

People who live along the Mid Canterbury coastline can also use the ShakeOut to think about what they would do in the event of a tsunami.

Mr Hyde said council staff would be taking part in the drill.

“Staff working in the administrative levels of Te Whare Whakatere and those in the library will be pausing to drop, cover and hold and we hope any members of the public in the building at the time will do the same.

“Staff at the Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum and at EA Networks Centre will also be taking part in the drill, so if you’re visiting these facilities then please join in. If you’re in the pool, you should move to the centre of the pool, and in a real quake you’d look up to watch for falling objects.

“Council has an important role in civil defence emergency management and everyone needs to know what to do and how to protect themselves. Know what to do can save lives.”

Sign up for the ShakeOut at getready.govt.nz