September is National Preparedness Month, serving as a critical reminder that we must be ready year-round to protect our homes, communities, businesses, and loved ones from the devastation caused by disasters of all types. We are sharing important tips and regional resources throughout the month, so check back for updates.
Be Informed. Stay Informed.
Having access to current information is critical during an emergency. Here are three things you can do now to ensure you have what you need, when you need it:
- Register your email and mobile number with Alert San Diego with your current address. Land lines are automatically included in the county’s reverse 911 system, but this allows you to get the information relevant to your current place of residence no matter where you are at the time the alert goes out.
- Download the SD Emergency app on your mobile phone and/or tablet. Designed for San Diego County residents, the app has a section for emergency planning, a section with information and maps during the emergency, and a section with recovery resources for after.
- Download the Poway CityApp. The free app debuted in 2020 primarily for residents to report and track incidents around the city. However, it also provides quick access to connect residents with information during an emergency event.
Make a Plan. Have a Plan.
Be prepared to care of yourself and family for the first 72 hours following a major disaster or emergency.
The first step is getting your supplies together. This includes your “go bag” to grab and go in the event of an evacuation and a “stay box” to shelter at home. Have you heard of the “6 P’s of Evacuation”? Some of these items you won't be able to pre-pack, so have this list taped to the outside of your “go bag” and know where they are located in your home:
- People/Pets
- Papers/Phone Numbers
- Prescriptions/Vitamins/Eyeglasses
- Pictures/Irreplaceable Memorabilia
- Personal Computer
- Plastics/Cash
The second step is planning and sharing the best evacuation routes away from danger, and where your family will meet up. Make special arrangements for small children or anyone in your household with limited mobility, disabilities, or other access and functional needs. And include an out-of-state emergency contact that everyone in your family checks in case you are separated.
Get more details in our Emergency Preparedness for Individuals and Families section our website.
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