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On October 17, 1989, the Loma Prieta Earthquake shook the Bay Area, leaving behind a trail of destruction and a lasting reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness. Thirty-six years later, California continues to honor that memory by investing in readiness—especially in our schools.
Each year on the third Thursday of October, millions of Californians participate in the Great ShakeOut, a statewide earthquake drill designed to promote safety and awareness. For K-12 schools, this event is a cornerstone of their school emergency preparedness plans. Students and staff practice how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On,” reinforcing life-saving habits and ensuring that emergency protocols are second nature.
But drills are only part of the equation. In any crisis—whether it’s an earthquake, lockdown, or medical emergency—instant communication for schools is essential. The ability to relay information quickly and clearly can mean the difference between chaos and coordinated response.
That’s why many districts are turning to school two-way radios and professional two-way radios as part of their school emergency communication systems. These tools provide reliable, real-time communication across campuses, allowing administrators, teachers, and safety personnel to stay connected even when traditional networks fail.
As Motorola radio dealers, we’ve seen firsthand how radios for schools improve response times and enhance coordination during drills and actual emergencies. Whether it’s a principal contacting the front office, a teacher reporting a safety concern, or a custodian alerting staff to a hazard, campus crisis communication must be seamless and dependable.
The Loma Prieta Earthquake taught us that preparedness is not optional—it’s essential. By combining education, regular drills like the Great ShakeOut, and robust communication tools, California schools are building a safer future for every student and staff member.
Let’s continue to learn from the past and invest in the systems that keep our communities safe.In the decades since, California has made significant strides in earthquake readiness. One of the most visible efforts is the Great ShakeOut, an annual statewide drill held on the third Thursday of October. Schools, businesses, government agencies, and families participate in this coordinated event to practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On"—a simple but effective protocol that can save lives during seismic activity.
For students across California, the ShakeOut is more than a drill. It’s a moment of education and empowerment. Teachers use the opportunity to explain earthquake science, review safety procedures, and ensure that emergency plans are in place. These drills foster a culture of preparedness from a young age, helping future generations understand both the risks and the tools available to mitigate them.
But drills alone aren’t enough. When disaster strikes, communication becomes the backbone of response and recovery. First responders rely on clear, uninterrupted channels to coordinate aid. Schools need to reach parents. Utilities must assess damage and deploy crews. Communities depend on timely, accurate information to make life-saving decisions.
The Loma Prieta Earthquake taught us that traditional communication infrastructure can be vulnerable. Power outages, damaged cell towers, and overwhelmed networks can leave people isolated. That’s why resilient communication systems—those that can withstand and adapt to crisis conditions—are essential.
As we reflect on the lessons of 1989 and participate in the Great ShakeOut, let’s remember that preparedness is a shared responsibility. Earthquakes may be inevitable, but their impact doesn’t have to be. Through education, drills, and robust communication planning, California continues to build a safer, more connected future.
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