In a major disaster, it might be several days before vital city services are restored. Sonoma is exposed to a wide variety of hazards, both natural and man-made, including earthquakes, fires, and severe storms. In addition to your best defense is to take steps to be prepared for emergencies, both at home and in your place of business. It’s also important, especially during wildfire season, to prepare for power outages. We’ve provided links to a number of resources to help you create a plan that will assist you during an emergency.
Sonoma County has experienced a number of disasters over the past several years including floods, earthquakes, power shutoffs, a pandemic and wildfires. The County’s warning and alert system, have grown to notify residents of an emergency in their area early and accurately. Many alerts require individual’s opt-in, below are links to sign-up and information on additional warning systems. To learn more about the County’s Emergency and Preparedness information visit www.socoemergency.org
Source: Soco Emergency
Member organizations focus on preparedness and are ready to respond with resources, volunteers and coordination of services to those who need assistance during and immediately after a disaster and ideally hold the capacity to activate a long-term recovery group.
The Listos (Ready) California Emergency Preparedness Campaign ensures that people across the state are ready for emergencies through volunteer efforts, neighborhood preparedness, and disaster readiness. It builds on the success of existing local initiatives throughout California to strengthen emergency preparedness networks.
Source: Listos California
There is hot, and then there is hot! Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. Extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of annual deaths among all weather-related hazards.
Know the signs of heat-related illnesses and ways to respond. If you are sick and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for advice and shelter in place if you can. If you are experiencing a medical emergency call 9-1-1.
Get more detailed information about heat-related illnesses from the CDC and National Weather Service.
HEAT STROKE
If you suspect heat stroke, call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives. Do not give the person anything to drink.
An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the ground caused by the shifting of rocks deep underneath the earth’s surface. Earthquakes can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. While they can happen anywhere without warning, areas at higher risk for earthquakes include Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington and the entire Mississippi River Valley.
Wildfires are unplanned fires that ignite in natural areas such as forests, grasslands, or prairies. These fast-moving and hazardous fires can cause severe destruction, affecting both wildlife and the surrounding environment as well as homes and infrastructure.
Strengthen your Home
Know your Evacuation Zone
Gather Supplies
IF YOU ARE UNDER A FLOOD WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY
Don’t walk, swim, or drive through flood waters!
Information on preparing for a flood can be found here: https://socoemergency.org/emergency/flooding/
To report downed trees, rockslides, or other road hazards, call:
The North Bay, including Sonoma, Napa, Solano and Marin Counties, has multiple animal disaster resources (CARTs). But responders may not be able to reach animals or people trapped by water or debris for several days in some situations.
Accommodation needs span every demographic—people of all ages may require support. These needs can vary widely, both visibly and invisibly. For individuals and their families, considering specific circumstances and necessary accommodations is key to effective emergency and disaster preparedness.