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Just How Prepared Were 92127 Residents in Blackout?

Posted on September 23, 2011
blackout

Are 92127 residents prepared for a disaster?

The question is asked frequently, and most might probably answer, “Yes, I’m ready.” But are you really? The challenge is that one never really knows for sure just how ready they are until a disaster actually strikes – and, at that point, it’s too late.

The recent power outage that affected the entire county gave everyone a glimpse of what might be faced in the wake of a major disaster: Clogged streets and freeways, sewage spills, and potentially contaminated drinking water were just some consequences we faced as a result of the power outage. On a more personal level, gas pumps wouldn’t work, ATMs were not accessible, and for those electrical stoves — cooking was not an option.

Now is the time for 92127 residents to assess disaster preparedness level and make some positive changes. The American Red Cross has broken down disaster preparedness into three categories to help simplify the planning process, encouraging everyone to “Make a Plan, Get a Kit, and Be Informed.”

 Make a Plan

  • Discuss with family members what everyone will do in various emergency situations.
  • Create an evacuation plan. If required to evacuate your home, where will everyone meet? Where will the family go? Remember to include any pets in your evacuation plan.
  • Make sure the adults in the family know how to turn off utilities at the home.
  • Assign tasks to each family member, including children. A simple chore gives children something to focus on other than the potentially scary situation.
  • Designate an out-of-town family member or close friend to serve as a contact person.
  • Fill the fuel tanks of all vehicles on a regular basis. Never let fuel levels drop below a quarter of a tank.
  • Make a list of everything to take if evacuation occurs. Examples may include: Medications; photos, heirlooms, or other sentimental items; computer hard drive; chargers for cell phones and other electrical devices; books, hand-held electronic games, or some other form of entertainment; and change of clothes.

Get a Kit

Every family should have an emergency kit full of food and supplies. Complete kits are available for purchase, but it really is just as easy to assemble a kit. It should contain enough supplies for every member of your household for at least three days, but some may want a kit that provides for the family for up to two weeks.

Contents should include: Non-perishable food (don’t forget the can opener!); water; flashlights; radio (battery operated, or even crank operated); batteries (assorted sizes); blankets; first aid kit; medications; money; personal items; pet supplies; sanitary supplies; tools; garbage bags; and clothing, especially sturdy shoes, a jacket, and gloves.

Be Informed

Information is a powerful tool for keeping a family safe. Become familiar with what types of disasters are common in the area. In San Diego, most commonly faced emergencies are related to wildfire, earthquakes, and flooding. Residents should know where to purchase supplies, and learn which radio stations are most likely to carry up-to-the-minute information during a crisis situation (such as KOGO AM 600).

 Get Involved With CERT

In addition to the recommendations from the American Red Cross, the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District encourages everyone living or working within the district to join the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

CERT is a nationally-recognized program designed to train members of neighborhoods, community organizations and workplaces in basic disaster response skills. During natural or man-made disasters emergency personnel are often stretched thin and may be unable to help residents in a timely manner. If a disastrous event overwhelms or delays the community’s professional emergency crews, CERT members may be called on to assist their own families — as well as others by applying their skills learned in training.

For 4S Ranch residents, applications are now being accepted by RSFFPD at www.rsf-fire.org for the 2011 CERT fall training session, which begins Sept. 27 at the 4S Ranch Fire Station (Santaluz residents are participating in the Rancho Penasquitos CERT program, while Westwood and High Country West residents are included in the Rancho Bernardo CERT program; both are being organized via City of San Diego resources).

While there is no way to be completely prepared for every crisis that may occur, by making a plan, getting a kit, and being informed, residents will minimize the adverse effects of any disaster situation.

By JULIE TABER

Special to 92127 Magazine

Taber is Public Relations Coordinator for the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District.

 

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