Preparing your family for the worst that can happen during a disaster doesn't sound like a great plan for a day, but San Mateo County officials are ready to host the 19th Annual Disaster Preparedness Day, an event where you can learn tips, tricks, and checklists to complete, all in a fun, safe environment with hot dogs.
While an earthquake or tsunami cannot be predicted or stopped, we can anticipate and prepare for any number of calamities that may occur while at home, at the office, on the road, or at school.
So, during this 19th annual San Mateo County Disaster Preparedness Day, attendees will be given the opportunity to learn from experts in a family-friendly setting with free hot dogs (while supplies last), and a chance for children and adults to get up close and personal with emergency response vehicles.
The free event takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 5 at the San Mateo County Event Center. Free parking will be available at the entrance at 1346 Saratoga Drive, San Mateo.
Workshops will include how to make a basic family communication plan that outlines where to go and who to contact, as well as what to pack in a basic, inexpensive emergency supply kit. Local experts will teach classes on CPR, basic first aid and fire prevention.
In addition to the activities and hot dogs, children will be able to participate in raffles for flashlights, books, and toy firefighter helmets. In addition, attendees will be able to enjoy a “Smoke Tunnel” simulation, take a selfie with a firefighter or police officer, and obtain free COVID-19 testing kits.
"The time to start thinking about your family's risks is now, not when the creeks are rising or there's smoke on the horizon," said Don Mattei, director of the county's Department of Emergency Management.
“Our goal is to help families and communities become self-sufficient in emergency preparedness, enabling them to survive and recover from a disaster as efficiently as possible,” Mattei said.
Once inside the Event Center, signs will direct visitors to an exhibit hall where participating organizations and vendors include the American Red Cross, the Center for Independence of Individuals with Disabilities, San Mateo County Large Animal Evacuation, numerous community emergency response teams from around the county, local fire, police and public safety agencies, and many more.
For more information, interested parties can visit the site smcdisasterprep.org or call 650-363-4790.
You may be interested in: San Mateo County will help North Fair Oaks businesses affected by redevelopment
