With the increasing frequency of natural disasters like wildfires and severe weather events, coupled with the constant awareness of the potential for the next big earthquake, the need to be prepared has never been more critical, which is why Community Preparedness Month is back in Santa Clara County.
This event will help prepare community members with essential skills and resources for when emergencies and disasters occur.
So, during this month, the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) not only commemorates the 23rd anniversary of 9/11, but is also actively working with the community to instill a sense of responsibility in personal preparedness.
A key focus of this year’s commemoration revolves around empowering older adults to be resilient in the face of disasters, with a special focus on communities that bear a disproportionate burden during various emergencies.
In light of this, county officials have encouraged all community members to attend the second annual Emergency Preparedness Fair. Attendees will have direct access to partner organizations that provide emergency resources and services during major disasters and will learn more about emergency preparedness.
This emergency preparedness fair will be held on Saturday, September 23 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Santa Clara County Animal Services, located at 12425 Monterey Rd. in San Martin.
This year's fair will feature partner agencies including the American Red Cross, Silicon Valley Independent Living Center, Community Health Partnerships, Santa Clara County Animal Services, Santa Clara County Health System, Department of Family and Children's Services and the San Martin Homeowners Alliance.
It is important to note that personal preparation for various natural disasters is extremely important. The county has therefore suggested a series of four steps to respond to these eventualities.
Step 1: Register on AlertSCC
Residents can register at www.AlertSCC.org, the official emergency alert and warning system for Santa Clara County, where community members can receive local alerts directly to mobile devices, landlines, or email.
Step 2: make a plan
Plan and map several evacuation routes in multiple directions. Identify safe meeting places along these routes and mark emergency resources and services available along the way on a paper map. Involve the family in discussions about communication strategies during an emergency. Establish a contact person outside the area who can serve as a central point of information.
Also, plan how to inform each other of safety statuses if you are separated. Prioritize documenting your home and property before a disaster strikes. Take photos and create a detailed record of all belongings. This inventory will be invaluable for insurance claims and recovery efforts after an incident.
Step 3: Create an Emergency Supply Kit
Prepare for any emergency by putting together a go bag and stay kit. This emergency supplies kit is a must for quick evacuations. Include personal items, nonperishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, phone chargers, prescription medications, important documents, and a paper contact list.
Make sure to stock it with essential supplies that will last for 7 days.
Step 4: Help others
Ensuring the safety of others starts with your own preparation. Hold a neighborhood emergency planning meeting to discuss topics such as evacuation routes and safe meeting points.
Likewise, identify and create a comprehensive contact list of allied services and resources to share within your community. In times of crisis, your personal safety takes priority. Always check your surroundings and make sure you are out of harm's way. If it is safe to do so, reach out to others or call 9-1-1.
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