Published: Sep 22, 2020 | 07:22 AM

Tips for National Preparedness Month

Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today.

That’s the tagline for this year’s National Preparedness Month, an annual observance in September to remind us to check on our safety plans and supplies.

IRWD is always on the ready, keeping watch to respond to emergencies in our service area, patrolling canyon areas and monitoring operations for risks from fire, power failures, or other emergencies. Backup generators and fuel tanks are prepared at all times should we need them.

We also participate in ongoing training and emergency drills with the Water Emergency Response Organization of Orange County and other agencies to establish a coordinated response to whatever comes our way.

But the safety of our community doesn’t stop there. Individuals must also do their part to prepare themselves and their families.

Here’s what the Department of Homeland Security recommends we all do during this national safety observation month.

• Make a plan: Talk to friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after disaster. Make sure that plan complies with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations due to the coronavirus.
• Build a kit: Gather supplies that will last several days for everyone in your home. Visit ready.gov/kit for details. In addition to water, food and other supplies, this year’s recommendations include masks and disinfectants for dealing with COVID-19.
• Assess risks: Consider the types of emergencies you may be facing due to your location and living conditions. For instance, if wildfire is a threat from nearby open spaces, create a safety zone around your home. Visit ready.gov/wildfires for more.
• Alerts: Sign up to receive emergency alerts to keep you informed during times of crisis. Enroll in IRWD’s CodeRED alert system at IRWD.com/emergency-codered/services/emergency.