City urges residents to prepare for emergencies
The City of San Diego urges residents to take time during National Preparedness Month to review safety protocols to prepare for potential life-threatening situations, such as wildfires, earthquakes, major storms and floods.
National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster planning now and throughout the year. Wildfires currently burning in San Diego County, and across California, are a stark reminder that preparedness is paramount.
“There is no better time than now to think about safety,” said Capt. Darryl Hoover, Commanding Officer for the San Diego Police Department’s Office of Homeland Security. “Preparing for potential threats will provide you with the assistance you may need in case of an emergency.”
Experts remind people to review their emergency plans in light of the COVID-19 public health orders, as more family members may be home during times they previously would have been at work or school. There are a number of preventative measures San Diegans can take to help keep their families, pets, homes and businesses safe.
Alert San Diego
The countywide Alert San Diego is a regional notification system that will send telephone alerts to residents and businesses within San Diego County impacted by, or in danger of being impacted by, an emergency or disaster. Sign up at readysandiego.org.
Fire safety
The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department recommends San Diegans use Ready, Set, Go! as a guide for developing emergency plans for responding to wildfires. The Ready, Set, Go! action plan provides information, multiple checklists and suggestions for what you need to supply a proper emergency kit. It also includes a printable contact information sheet and more.
Earthquakes
Because of its location on two tectonic plates, California is a high-risk area for earthquakes. Earthquakes can happen without warning and can result in injuries and damage to property and roads. The state of California offers a free Homeowners’ Guide to Earthquake Safety that can help you prepare for an earthquake and determine what to do after a quake occurs.
Flooding
The City provides Flood Insurance Rate Maps and National Flood Insurance Program information that can help property owners prepare in areas near the coast, along rivers and creeks and low-lying areas. Also, people who live or work in areas downstream from reservoir dams could be impacted if a dam failed due to earthquake or another catastrophe. Learn more by visiting sandiego.gov/tsw/programs/flood.
General safety preparedness
The City’s Office of Homeland Security provides information on creating an emergency plan, putting together a supply kit and more: sandiego.gov/ohs.