Illinois to participate in earthquake drill

SPRINGFIELD (AP) – Illinois will participate in a multistate earthquake drill next week as part of earthquake preparedness month.

State officials say more than 400,000 Illinois residents have registered to take part in the drill at 10:15 a.m. Tuesday.

More than 2 million people are registered in nine states.

The "Great Central U.S. ShakeOut" drill is aimed at helping people practice the "Drop, Cover and Hold On" procedures to be followed during an earthquake.

Residents are encouraged to drop to the floor, take cover under a piece of furniture and hold onto it.

Disaster officials say residents also should have an emergency kit outfitted with water, nonperishable food, flashlights and a first-aid kit, among other supplies.

Gov. Pat Quinn has proclaimed February Earthquake Preparedness Month in Illinois.

The drill will take place eight days after a minor earthquake centered in McHenry rattled the region.