Prepare for a Natural Disaster: Essential Steps to Stay Safe in Cal. Fire Season

Things Needed To Prepare For a Natural Disaster

​Prepare Beforehand & Use Cal Fire as a Resource

NO ONE is immune to disaster. We know there is a high risk of fires, floods and earthquakes when living in California. Although preparing for a natural disaster may seem like a daunting and stressful task, it is your most important key to survival. What does preparation involve?

• Prepare mentally. Acknowledge the fact that disasters happen and that you and your loved ones are potentially at risk.

• Research and learn about disasters that can happen in your area. Know where shelters are and plan an evacuation route. Consider whether the construction of your home and its location are as safe as possible. You can remove or fix fire hazards to limit the risk. Install smoke detectors, and change their batteries at least once a year. Download phone apps that send you notifications when there is a natural disaster risk in your area. A few great resources: the Cal Fire website (The Department of Forestry and Fire Protection), Watch Duty app, Pulse Point app.

• Stock up on emergency supplies, as power, water, phone, and transportation services may become unavailable during a disaster. If you have a car, keep the gas tank at least half full, and if you drive an electric vehicle, charge it overnight to ensure a full battery each morning. Make sure your home is always equipped with food, water, and an emergency kit, and avoid letting your refrigerator or pantry run completely empty.

• Have access to the phone numbers of friends, both close by and far away. This might mean having them written down on paper not just saved on your phone.

• Create and practice an escape plan with your family. Familiarize yourself with the nearest exits in your home, workplace, and neighborhood, and review the emergency procedures at your children’s school. Choose two designated meeting spots—one close to home and another outside your neighborhood in case the first is unreachable. Authorities suggest practicing the route to these locations with your family to ensure everyone knows the way and to identify any necessary adjustments to your evacuation plan.

 After the Disaster

To avoid disease and danger, consider the following recommendations:

• Stay with friends rather than in a camp.

• Keep your living space sanitary. Have cleaning supplies stocked and ready.

• When cleaning up debris, always prioritize safety by wearing personal protective equipment, such as gloves, sturdy shoes, a hard hat, and a dust mask. Stay alert for potential hazards like exposed electrical wires or hidden embers. Only begin cleanup if authorities have confirmed it is safe and evacuation orders have been lifted in the area.

• After a natural disaster, emotional distress often sets in once the initial shock has passed. Feelings of anxiety, depression, mood swings, and trouble concentrating or sleeping are common. Coping with loss can be challenging, but seeking support from loved ones, joining community support groups, or speaking with a mental health professional can help. Engaging in calming activities like journaling, meditation, or light exercise may also provide relief. Prioritizing self-care and allowing yourself time to heal are essential steps toward emotional recovery.

 Do You Have the Necessities?

Disaster management organizations advise families to keep emergency supplies on hand and update them yearly. Your specific needs may vary based on your location and circumstances, so it's best to consult local emergency management services for area-specific recommendations. Generally, it's recommended to have at least three gallons (11 L) of water per person and a three-day supply of nonperishable, ready-to-eat food.

Also, some families have prepared “go bags” with such items as the following: 

• Blankets, complete change of warm clothes, and shoes

• Flashlight, radio (battery or windup), and spare batteries

• First-aid kit and a whistle to signal for help

• Eating utensils, can opener, pocket tool set, and waterproof matches

• Dust masks, waterproof tape, and plastic sheeting for shelter

• Toothbrushes, soap, towels, and toilet paper

• Child-care supplies and special-needs items for seniors or the disabled

• A waterproof container with needed medication, copies of prescriptions, and other important documents

• List of emergency contacts and meeting places and a local map

• Credit cards and cash

• Extra set of house keys and car keys

• Paper, pencils, books, and games for children

• Extra pet food and pet supplies like leashes, dog crates or dog pens