Millions of Californians are expected to "drop, cover and hold," on Oct. 21 during an earthquake drill, including thousands from the Cal Poly Pomona community who are learning, teaching, and working on campus and remotely.

The Great California ShakeOut is part of a global earthquake exercise and was started in Southern California in 2008 by the U.S. Geological Survey. To learn more, visit the campus' Emergency Management page or the Great California ShakeOut website.

On Thursday at 10:21 a.m., the university will test its Safety Alert system, sending text and email messages to students, faculty, and staff. To receive an alert, make sure your contact information in BroncoDirect is current.

It is recommended that participants in the drill who are indoors drop to the ground and take cover under a desk or table and hold on to the furniture providing cover for one minute until the conclusion of the drill. Taking a tumble or being struck by a falling object may be the two greatest hazards during an earthquake.

In preparation for the drill, it is recommended that you review your emergency plans and put together an emergency kit.

Other things to consider include:

• Do you always keep your cell phone and computer charged; do you have an alternate way to charge your device if the power is down?
• How would you contact your family in case of an emergency if cell towers are down?
• Do you have a plan for checking in with people and responding to emails, texts or other forms of communication?
• ATMs and electronic forms of payment may be offline after a major earthquake. How long can you live on the money you have on you right now?
• Gas stations may be inoperable due to power outages; do you always keep the gas tank at least half full?

In case of a major earthquake or any other emergency, Cal Poly Pomona will send Safety Alert messages to the university community via text/SMS, email and telephone, as well as post messages on the university's home page and Emergency Management website. Those experiencing an emergency on campus can call University Police at 909-869-3070 or dial 9-1-1 from a campus phone.

The university is prepared to respond to an earthquake, but it is always prudent to have water and a flashlight on hand. Other tips include knowing the safe spots in your office, apartment or residence hall room, making sure furniture and items on your shelves and walls are secure, and keeping a list of emergency phone numbers handy.