In Santa Clara County, the need for disaster preparedness has reached new heights with the growing incidence of wildfires, severe weather, and potential earthquakes. The return of Community Preparedness Month seeks to equip community members with essential skills and resources to face emergencies and foster disaster resilience, according to the County of Santa Clara news release.
County officials have focused on commemorating the 23rd anniversary of 9/11 while actively engaging with the community to instill a sense of personal preparedness responsibility. This year's program emphasizes empowering older adults to be resilient in the face of disasters, with particular attention given to communities that bear a disproportionate burden during emergencies.
As part of the initiative, the Santa Clara County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is encouraging community members to attend the 2nd Emergency Preparedness Fair on September 23. Attendees will have direct access to partner organizations that offer emergency services and learn more about preparedness planning during major disasters, as per the FB post of the County of Santa Clara.
Moreover, the fair features partner agencies such as the American Red Cross, Silicon Valley Independent Living Center, Community Health Partnerships, and County of Santa Clara Animal Services, to name a few. At the event, community members will be introduced to the four key steps towards preparedness: signing up for AlertSCC, making a plan, building an emergency supply kit, and helping others.
By engaging in these steps, participants will establish a strong foundation for their personal and communal resilience. In addition to preparing their own households for disaster, assisting neighbors and other community members is an essential aspect of fostering a broader network of preparedness.
