We all grew up doing earthquake and fire drills, watch the news, and maybe have even experienced Mother Nature’s wrath ourselves, but how many of us can say we really feel prepared if disaster strikes? Since 2004, National Preparedness Month has been recognized every September. This year’s theme is “Prepared, Not Scared” which is a great catchphrase I plan on using with my kids. In honor of National Preparedness Month, both Newport Beach and Costa Mesa are hosting FREE events to educate and prepare the community.
Saturday, September 7th: Green on Green and Disaster Preparedness Expos
- Hosted by The Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Newport Beach Fire Department
- Civic Center Green, 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach
- 11am – 2pm
- Exhibits, education booths and displays (for both green living and disaster preparedness)
- Featuring new electric/hybrid vehicles
- Free electronics recycling and document shredding
- Learn about the city’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
- Learn how to build a disaster supply kit
- Learn how to organize your neighborhood
- Learn about hands only CPR
- Petting zoo (that one’s just for fun)
Saturday, September 14th: Prepared, Not Scared
- Hosted by Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue
- Tewinkle Middle School, 3224 California Street, Costa Mesa
- 9am – 1pm
- The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will host various preparedness zones
- Learn about family preparedness
- Know your utilities
- Learn a first aid skill
- How to get involved and help with community preparedness
Of course it is always great to review your preparedness for a disaster regularly, whether you are able to attend one of these free events or not. Here are a few websites you should check out:
- www.alertoc.com: Sign up to receive City emergency notifications
- www.readyoc.org: Orange County’s emergency preparedness resource
- www.earthquakecountry.org: Information and resources to help people prepare, survive and recover
- www.noaa.gov: National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, keeping the public informed of the changing environment
- www.nfpa.org: Resource for fire, electrical, and related hazards
- www.redcross.org: Training and certification
You may also tune into Newport Beach radio station KWVE 107.9 FM for information and directions during an emergency.
