Emergency Preparedness Tips

Source: Santa Barbara County

County agencies and first responders prepare and practice for emergency response across the county. We’re ready; are you?

Listed here are important preparedness tips BEFORE an emergency or disaster occurs:

• Register for Santa Barbara County alerts at www.AwareandPrepare.org. 
   
• Potential Threats – Learn what disasters are likely to occur or have occurred in your area.
   
• Locate Community Resources – Identify how authorities will notify you during a disaster, such as Aware and Prepare alerts, reverse 9-11, media reports and County resources listed below. In the middle of the night it might be door-to-door, or PA System announcements and sirens from Sheriff and Fire. 
   
• Plan Escape Routes – Identify two ways to escape from every room and PRACTICE. Map and plan evacuation routes and a family meeting point.
   
• Establish a Communication Plan – Plan how you will contact family members, especially children, seniors and those with accessibility needs; think about different ways to communicate and PRACTICE.
   
• Make an Emergency Kit – Check with your local Office of Emergency Services or go to www.Ready.gov.
   
• Maintain your Disaster Supply Kit.
   
• Make Emergency Contact Cards – Keep the cards handy in a wallet, purse, backpack, etc., and include a list of medications and immunizations.
   
• Make Copies of Important Papers – Keep important papers in a safety deposit box or with someone you trust.
   
• Plan for Your Pet – Keep a phone list of pet-friendly hotels/motels, veterinarians and animal shelters.

DURING a wildfire, flood, earthquake, oil spill, tsunami or any other disaster, get information and updates at www.CountyofSB.org, CSB TV Channel 20, @CountyofSB on Twitter and FaceBook, or call 2-1-1 in the 805 area code or toll free (800) 400-1572.