Today marks the first day of National Preparedness Month.
Marin County is no stranger to the destruction that disasters like wildfires, flooding, and earthquakes can bring. Our resilience during an emergency is dependent on the amount of preparation we put in ahead of time.
Over the next month, we will share some simple steps San Rafael residents can take to prepare. We invite you to follow along!
Here is an overview of what we will be covering throughout September.
- Get Informed
Signing up for emergency alerts through Alert Marin and Nixle will ensure your family knows what is happening in the community and when it is time to act. Sign up at https://emergency.marincounty.org/pages/alertmarin and by texting your home, work, and school Zip Codes to 888-777. - Make a Plan
Emergency plans are at the heart of disaster preparedness. Every household should have a well-thought-out plan that includes communication strategies, evacuation routes, and a designated meeting place. The plan should account for family members’ unique needs, such as older adults, children, individuals with disabilities, and pets. It is essential to review your plan regularly. - Assemble a well-stocked Go Bag.
A basic kit should include essentials such as non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, and essential documents. Tailor your kit to your family’s specific needs, such as medications or pet supplies. Remember that in the aftermath of a disaster, access to resources may be limited, so having a sufficient supply on hand is essential. - Stock up on essential supplies for your home.
Sometimes, you may be unable to leave your home during an emergency. Ensure you have all the supplies you will need to live in your home for a few days without electricity or water. - Get to know your community.
When disasters happen, neighbors turn to neighbors. Connect now with the people around you, and don’t wait until disaster strikes to meet each other.
A Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority study found that the three most common reasons for fatalities in a wildfire are failure to be alerted, delayed evacuation, and extreme fire behavior. While we cannot control extreme wind or how far embers can fly, we can ensure that we are ready to take action when it is necessary.