National Preparedness Month is observed each September to raise awareness about steps individuals, families, and communities can take to be ready for any disaster or other emergency.
The recent news of the wildfire that took place on the island of Maui, Hawaii, was a horrific reminder that a disaster can happen anywhere, at any time, without warning. Your preparation will inform and empower you to meet your own, as well as your family’s, needs during what is normally an extremely chaotic period. Older adults can face greater risks when it comes to the multitude of extreme weather events and emergencies we now face, especially if they are living alone, are low-income, have a disability, or live in rural areas. If you have elderly family members, neighbors, or friends, please reach out to make sure that they are prepared for any emergency, and call upon them should a disaster strike.
Every member of the family should have an Emergency Preparedness kit. Emergency Preparedness kits should be made or purchased for your home, car, and office to provide food, water, tools, and medical supplies for a minimum of 3-5 days following an earthquake or other major community disaster. Learn what to put in your "go kit." A little bit of time and money is worth the feeling of security, knowing you will be prepared, should disaster strike.
Other important tips:
* Determine a family meeting place in case you are separated in the event of an emergency.
* Plan your escape routes in case of fire or earthquake and practice with your family members.
* Don't forget to make a plan for your family pets.
* Sign up for AC Alert and Nixle to receive emergency notifications.
* Subscribe to City of Dublin news flashes and emergency alerts at https://www.dublin.ca.gov/list.aspx, and our social media accounts: Twitter (@DublinPIO); Facebook (@CityofDublinCA); and Instagram (@CityofDublinCA).
* Visit Ready.gov for additional emergency preparation tips.