Time to Reevaluate Disaster Preparedness Plans at Home in New Age of Remote Working Trend

Pasadenans should be prepared for The Big One, that hypothetical-but-probable earthquake of magnitude 8 or greater that is expected to happen along the San Andreas Fault someday.

“In the wake of large-scale disasters throughout the world, the City of Pasadena reminds all residents to be prepared for the type of disasters and emergencies that could affect Southern California,” Pasadena’s emergency response manager Lisa Derderian said. 

This Thursday is the annual ShakeOut and families, schools and businesses are asked to review their disaster plans, update disaster kits and make sure communication plans are practiced.

“Especially now that people are working from home they need to re-evaluate their disaster plans,” Derderian added.

In particular, Derderian stressed on the importance of storing water in several locations in the home.

“Plumbing may be impacted after a disaster and water won’t be available, so it’s all about personal preparedness and storing one gallon of water per person, per day. And don’t forget your pets and extra for personal hygiene,” she said. “Water tenders will be brought in with drinking water but that could take several days or longer if several cities are impacted.”

On ShakeOut Day, millions of people around the world will participate in earthquake drills at work, school, or home at 10:20 a.m. wherever they are.

While everyone is encouraged to participate simultaneously on Thursday, you can always register your ShakeOut drill for any day of the year, and drill at a time of your choice. You can also include people in multiple locations through video conferencing. Registration is through www.shakeout.org/register.

Derderian said the City hopes to be able to bring back full  Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) 21-hour FEMA training in 2023. 

“The Fire Department conducts CERT overviews or a four-hour preview of the full course.  It involves disaster preparedness, fire extinguisher training, medical and light search and rescue and requires a group of 50-100 people,” Derderian said. 

In the meantime, it would do well to get hold of a comprehensive Emergency Survival Guide published by Los Angeles County as part of its Emergency Survival Program. The guide is available for download as a PDF from www.esfocus.org.

“Use this handy guide to help better prepare yourself, family, loved ones, your pets and neighbors for the next emergency,” Derderian said. “Disasters are not tangible and in our face everyday so people don’t make it a priority. Be prepared, not scared because it all comes down to how ready you are when our earthquake hits. And as we know it’s not a matter of if it’ll happen but when!”

For more resources about Thursday’s ShakeOut Day, visit www.cityofpasadena.net/fire/disaster-preparedness/the-great-shakeout.