As we head into the winter months, I want to encourage you and your family to take a few simple steps to prepare for potential emergencies.
With possible El Niño-related weather patterns headed our way, Southern California could experience heavy rainfall, severe storms, flooding, mudslides, and other weather-related challenges. At the same time, wildfires, high winds, and power outages remain concerns for many of our communities.
While we cannot predict exactly when or where an emergency may occur, we can take steps now to be better prepared.
Stay Informed with AwareCA
One resource I encourage you to explore is AwareCA, a FREE mobile app that provides emergency information directly from public safety agencies and emergency management partners throughout California.
AwareCA allows you to:
• Monitor emergency activity near your current location or other areas important to you.
• Receive notifications about incidents, evacuation information, and other public safety updates.
• Follow developing emergencies and access updates from responding agencies.
• View emergency incidents on a map to better understand activity affecting your community.
The app provides a convenient way to stay informed when emergencies arise.
Learn more and download AwareCA: https://aware.ca.gov/
Sign Up for Emergency Alerts
In addition to AwareCA, I strongly encourage you to register for emergency notifications through your county's official alert system.
These systems help local public safety officials communicate important information, including evacuation warnings, evacuation orders, severe weather alerts, and other emergencies that may affect your neighborhood.
Statewide Emergency Alert Resources
Visit Cal Alerts to find emergency alert systems throughout California.
County Emergency Alert Systems
You can access county emergency alert resources here:
• Orange County: ReadyOC Emergency Alerts
• Riverside County: Alert RivCo
• San Bernardino County: County Emergency Alerts
• San Diego County: AlertSanDiego
Take Steps Now to Prepare Your Household
Emergencies can happen with little warning, but taking a few simple precautions today can help you respond quickly and safely.
• Create a family emergency plan. Identify evacuation routes, establish a meeting location, and make sure everyone knows how to communicate if separated.
• Prepare an emergency kit. Keep enough water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and other essential supplies to last at least three days.
• Pack a go-bag. Include important documents, medications, clothing, chargers, and other necessities in case you need to leave quickly.
• Prepare for heavy rain and flooding. Clear debris from gutters and drainage areas, avoid driving through flooded roads, and stay informed about potential flood risks in your community.
• Reduce wildfire risks. Remove dry vegetation and combustible materials around your home, especially within the first five feet, and avoid activities that could create sparks during high fire danger conditions.
• Plan for power outages. Keep devices charged, have flashlights available, and check with your utility provider for information about potential Public Safety Power Shutoffs.
• Look out for your neighbors. Check in with seniors, individuals with disabilities, and others who may need additional assistance during an emergency.
For additional preparedness information, visit Ready.gov
Prepared Communities Are Safer Communities
California faces a variety of natural disasters, and preparedness is a responsibility we all share. Our firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency personnel work tirelessly to protect our communities, but each of us can do our part by planning ahead and staying informed.
Being prepared today can make all the difference when an emergency occurs.
Thank you for the opportunity to be of service, and stay safe.