Today, millions of people across the globe — and more than half a million in Oregon — will participate in the Great ShakeOut, a yearly earthquake drill that focuses on disaster preparation.
State of play: At 10:17 am, those taking part will "drop, cover and hold on," as if a large earthquake just struck.
Organizers have specific instructions for individuals practicing the drill and those leading drills in workplaces or schools.
Plus: Folks are encouraged to use the annual drill to refresh or develop plans for after a quake, and to make sure your emergency kit is ready to go.
The bottom line: Earthquakes are the kind of disasters that are easy to forget, but when the next one hits you'll be glad you did some prep work.