In a disaster, local officials and relief workers cannot reach everyone immediately; help may not arrive for hours or days. You and your family — and don’t forget to include the needs of those with disabilities — need to be prepared ahead of time because you won’t have time to shop or search for the supplies you will need when a disaster strikes.
Most disasters are natural disasters, the result of some force of nature, such as storms or earthquakes. Some natural disasters can be predicted, such as severe winter storms, while others, such as earthquakes, happen with little or no warning. Some disasters are the cause of human actions, intentional or unintentional.
Regardless of the type of disaster, some straightforward planning and preparation can help with your safety, security, and comfort.
Personal Emergency Preparedness Training
When disaster strikes, depending on the situation it may be a significant length of time before emergency medical, police and fire arrive in your neighborhood. The purpose of Personal Emergency Preparedness training is to inform and prepare individuals to be self sufficient for several days after an area-wide emergency. The District, in concert with the County Fire Department, presents courses to assist individuals and families to plan and be prepared in event of an emergency or disaster. The Personal Emergency Preparedness course is a 3-hour class designed for families to be able to survive the first 72 hours of a disaster.
Ways to Get Involved
- Watch a Video
- Learn Basic Emergency Preparedness Information
- Take a Class
- Learn About Becoming a CERT Member
Fire and Disaster Preparedness Resources
- Santa Clara County Fire Department
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
- FEMA Publication: “Are You Ready? A Guide to Citizen Preparedness”
- FEMA Emergency Management Guide for Business & Industry
- USGS – Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country (about this guide)
- USGS – Protecting Your Family From Earthquakes—The Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety (about this guide)
- Fire Safety & Prevention Checklist (from “This Old House”)