Are you ready for a disaster?

As part of an ongoing effort to educate residents in emergency preparedness, the City of Mission Viejo is offering detailed information every month through the Emergency Survival Program (ESP).  This guide features monthly topics, historical information and what you can do now to prepare. February's focus is on creating a disaster plan.

Once an earthquake or disaster is over, we face the risk of fire, potential lack of utilities and basic services and the certainty of aftershocks. By planning now, you will be ready. This plan will also be useful for other emergencies.

• Practice “drop, cover and hold on” to be safe during an earthquake
• Identify safe spots in every room, such as under sturdy desks and tables.
• Learn how to protect yourself no matter where you are when a disaster strikes.
• Keep shoes and a working flashlight next to each bed.
• Teach everyone in your household to use emergency whistles and/or to knock 3 times repeatedly if trapped.
• Rescuers searching collapsed buildings will be listening for sounds.
• Identify the needs of household members and neighbors with special requirements or situations like use of a wheelchair, walking aids, special diets or medication.
• Take a Red Cross first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training course. Learn who in your neighborhood is trained in first aid and CPR.

For more in-depth information on this month’s topic and other preparedness information, visit the City’s emergency preparedness page.