During National Preparedness Month, the City of San Diego is taking the opportunity to remind San Diegans to review safety procedures at home and work, and to have a safety plan in place BEFORE an emergency takes place. National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster planning throughout the year.  

“In San Diego, we know the threats are real – from wildfires to earthquakes to flooding – and we are investing in the tools our first responders need to keep people safe. But everyone has a role to play in being prepared for emergencies,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “I encourage every San Diegan to take time this month to make a plan, talk with your family, and be ready before disaster strikes.” 

Today, Sept. 9, the San Diego City Council proclaimed September as National Preparedness Month in the City of San Diego. In our region, the threat of wildfires is ever-present, and Southern California is projected to have a particularly high risk for fire conditions from late summer into the fall. Last month, Mayor Gloria and San Diego Fire-Rescue Chief Robert Logan showcased new tools in the City’s firefighting assets, including two off-road capable brush rigs, a new firefighting helicopter and a mobile communications unit. 

“We are adapting and investing in improvements that enhance our readiness for emergencies and disasters,” said City Council President Joe LaCava. “Providing our first responders with the tools they need to prevent, protect against, and recover from natural and human-caused hazards is what I hope will be the first of many steps that we take this year.” 

In addition to wildfires, emergency experts encourage people to prepare for other potential life-threatening situations, including major storms, floods, tsunamis, power outages and seismic activity.  

“Disaster preparedness is a shared responsibility. There is no better time than now to discuss safety at home and work,” said Christopher Heiser, Executive Director of the City’s Office of Emergency Services. “National Preparedness Month reminds us to have a plan in place for any potential threat.”    

The Office of Emergency Services (OES) supports the five mission areas outlined in FEMA’s National Preparedness Goal for prevention, protection, mitigation, response and recovery. OES reminds everyone to create and frequently review their emergency plans and to stay informed in order to keep their families, friends, pets, homes and businesses safe.  

Alert San Diego   

The countywide Alert San Diego is a regional notification system that will send telephone notifications to residents and businesses within San Diego County impacted by, or in danger of being impacted by, an emergency or disaster. Sign up at readysandiego.org.   

Fire Safety   

Wildfires currently burning in California are a stark reminder that preparedness is paramount. With more warm weather on the way, the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department recommends San Diegans use Ready, Set, Go! as a guide for developing emergency plans for responding to wildfires. The Ready, Set, Go! action plan provides information, multiple checklists and suggestions for what you need to supply a proper emergency kit. It also includes a printable contact information sheet and more.   

Earthquakes    

Because of its location on two tectonic plates, California is a high-risk area for earthquakes. Earthquakes can happen without warning and can result in injuries and damage to property and roads. The state of California offers a free Homeowners’ Guide to Earthquake Safety that can help you prepare for an earthquake and determine what to do after a quake occurs.   

 Flooding    

The City provides Flood Insurance Rate Maps and National Flood Insurance Program information that can help property owners prepare in areas near the coast, along rivers and creeks and low-lying areas. Also, people who live or work in areas downstream from reservoir dams could be impacted if a dam failed due to earthquake or another catastrophe. Learn more by visiting the City’s Floodplain Management page.    

Evacuations   

In any emergency, it is important to follow the recommendations of our public safety professionals. The San Diego Police Department provides evacuation coordination for safe and expeditious clearing of homes and businesses during emergency situations when necessary. Listen and follow their instructions for your safety.   

In order to address climate hazards, the City has developed Climate Resilient SD, a comprehensive plan to prepare for, respond to and recover from climate change-related impacts and improve local communities.  

Active Shooter  

Active shooter incidents are often unpredictable and evolve quickly. In the midst of the chaos, anyone can play an integral role in mitigating the impacts of an active shooter incident. Take a moment to review SDOES resources to better understand what you can do to prevent and mitigate active shooter scenarios.  

Power Outages  

If you lose electricity, it is recommended to use portable battery-operated lights or flashlights instead of candles. It is also important to have non-perishable food items, including canned goods and packaged snacks. Make sure cellphones are fully charged or have access to power packs to charge cellphones. For other tips, visit the SDG&E power outage website.  

About the Office of Emergency Services   

The City of San Diego's Office of Emergency Services strives to promote a secure and resilient City with the capabilities required across the whole community to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to and recover from threats and hazards that pose the greatest risk to the citizens we serve.   

Learn more about the San Diego Office of Emergency Services on the City’s website and find information on emergency preparedness, including the Hazards Dashboard to monitor weather patterns, potential threats and other important topics.