Disaster can happen at any moment.
Is your organization prepared in the event of an emergency?
Currently in Southern California:
1,913
SQUARE MILES OF COUNTY LAND LOCATED IN HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE
70
NUMBER OF DAMS IN L.A. COUNTY RATED AS EXTREMELY HIGH HAZARD
86%
PROBABILITY THAT A 7.0 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE WILL OCCUR IN SOCAL WITHIN 30 YEARS
PREPARE FOR A DISASTER
Read below to learn about best practices for planning an emergency response
1.
PREPARE AN EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
When an emergency strikes, it is important to be prepared with the necessary information to take action. Most often, the first minutes after an emergency or disaster are the most crucial. A prompt warning for your employees on where to evacuate, information on shelters or lockdown zones as well as access to emergency go or stay boxes are vital to ensuring safety. Clearly marked emergency exits and routes and a clear plan on what to do in case of disaster can save lives. A call to emergency services with concise information, an employee trained in first aid and CPR, and an employee who understands the building's utilities and electrical system can make a huge difference in the event of an emergency. All of these factors and more are essential in preparing for and responding to a disaster.
To minimize damage and ensure safety, we encourage workplaces and households to create an Emergency Response Plan, which outlines the tools necessary in case of an emergency.
​
2.
BUILD A DISASTER PREPAREDNESS KIT
Disaster could strike at any moment, leaving little to no time to shop or pack. Thus, it is important to be prepared. An important step in being Disaster Ready is building a Disaster Preparedness Stay Box or Go Bag.
​
In some disasters, it might be safer to stay home.
You may not have water to drink, to bathe, or to flush the toilet. You may not have electricity to keep your food cold, turn on a light or charge your phone.
​
Pack a Stay Box to prepare in case you cannot leave your house.
A Stay Box should include at least 3 days worth of supplies (food, water, batteries) that are usable without water or electricity. If you have young children or pets, be sure to include diapers, baby formula, and pet food. If you already own a flashlight or a portable radio, keep it somewhere easily accessible. It could also be beneficial to keep a flashdrive of any important documents.
​
3.
PACK A GO BAG
In some cases when disaster strikes, the safest place might not be the home. Wildfires, floods and earthquakes could leave you on the move - therefore, it is valuable to have a Go Bag. A Go Bag should include important documents, cash, maps, and medications lists as well as general supplies such as water, food, a first aid kit, toiletries, flashlight, and a portable radio.
Download a complete list of what to include in your Go Bag:
Prepare Disaster Preparedness Kits to support Los Angeles communities:
4.
GET ALERTS
Stay Informed. State-wide Alerts. No Matter Where You Are.
Alerts can help save lives and keep you, your family, and your community safe!
Receive disaster related alerts based on your county by visiting CalAlerts.
6.
DO MORE
Become a Disaster Volunteer
Interested in a becoming a VISTA?
Interested in hosting a VISTA at your organization?