Great Shakeout

October 15, 2026
10:15 am - 10:45 am
  • Pleasant Hill, San Ramon

On Thursday, October 15 at 10:15 a.m., DVC will be participating in the Great Shakeout, an International one-minute earthquake drill.

Why are we doing this?

Earthquakes are a reality for us. Participation in this event is an opportunity to review our emergency procedures, practice earthquake safety measures, and to test our emergency communication systems.

What will occur on 10/15?

At 10:15 a.m.:

  • You will receive a text message and email through the DVC emergency communications system.
  • There will be a classroom notification alerting you to the start of the drill, and an all clear after 60 seconds.

What should I do?

If you are in a classroom/lab:

  • Follow instructors’ directions on the Drop, Cover, and Hold On procedure. After the drill, your instructors will review evacuation routes with your class and discuss earthquake preparedness and safety protocols. Use this opportunity to note the emergency procedures posted in every classroom.

If you are in an office space, or campus common area such as the library or cafeteria:

  • Follow the Drop, Cover, and Hold On procedure when the drill begins. After the drill, practice checking surrounding areas for any potential hazards.

If you are in another location:

  • If you are outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines, then Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
  • If you are driving, pull over to a clear location, stop and stay there with your seatbelt fastened.

Will we be evacuating?

No. DVC’s participation in this drill will not involve a practice evacuation. In the event of an actual earthquake, you would stay inside until the shaking stops and then, if safe to do so, evacuate the building using only stairs and fire escapes to a safe location.