Simply stated, disaster preparedness is an essential
element for long-term assurance of the safety and well being of
individuals and families. Thus, the primary intention of this section
of the City of Rohnert Park's website is to convince you of the
importance of disaster preparedness. Secondarily, we will provide you
with basic disaster preparedness information.
Besides the basic disaster preparedness information
listed below, you will also find a number of resources that contribute
greater detail on the subject. (Since in all likelihood a large
disaster in our area would be earthquake related, occasional reference
to earthquake preparedness will be made. However, much of what is
discussed applies to preparedness for any type of natural disaster.)
Why do you need to be prepared in the event of a
disaster? Because it is very possible that no one, including
government, will be able to help you within the first few hours of a
large disaster, or in the case of a catastrophic event, within the
first few days. Local government has very limited resources, enough to
efficiently deal with "normal" localized emergencies only. In the case
of an area wide disaster, local government must direct is available
resources to the most pressing needs which may leave many emergencies
unattended to. For this reason Rohnert Park has mutual aid agreements
with other local governments, the County and the state. However, to
mobilize outside aid and resources, to a level of effectiveness, often
takes at least several days. The message is: You and your family may
very well need to fend for yourselves, for a period of time, in the
event of a large scale disaster.
Disaster Preparedness
Assemble an emergency supply kit that includes at least the following:
- Nonperishable food and drinking water (one gallon per person, per day-minimum three day supply)
- Food, including food for people with special needs (infants & seniors)
- Food and water for pets
- First aid kit. Don't forget to include any special medications
- Flashlights & battery operated radio (remember extra batteries)
- Extra clothing including heavy shoes
- Sleeping bags and/or extra blankets
- Miscellaneous supplies which would include emergency cash, adjustable wrench & other tools, whistle and manual can opener
- Choose an out of the area contact person whom you can call to
give your location and status so that those who may not be able to
contact you, because of the loss of telephone service and electronic
media, will know where you are and how your are doing.
- Discuss your preparedness plan and have practice drills with family members
- Know where, and how, to turn off your utilities. Have the
appropriate tools. (Caution: Turn off utilities only when you are sure
of a leak)
- Learn first aid
Reduce Hazards
- Strengthen your house against the effects of seismic energy wherever possible by performing a Residential Retrofit.
- Secure interior hazards, such as bookshelf units.
- Place heavy and breakable objects on lower shelves.
During an Earthquake
- If you're indoors duck, cover and hold. Avoid windows and outside
walls. Do not use elevators and, contrary to common opinion; do not
stand in door openings.
- If you're outdoors, move to an open area immediately. Avoid trees, tall walls, buildings and power lines.
- If you're driving, pull to the side of the road and stop.
Avoid overpasses, bridges, signs & poles if possible. Stay in the
car until the shaking stops.
After a Disaster
- Check yourself and others around you for injury.
- If the disaster is earthquake related, prepare for aftershocks.
- Check for utility problems such as water & gas leaks or
electrical problems. Do not shot gas off, or any other utility, unless
you are sure there is a problem.
- Use the telephone only for an immediate emergency
- Check your house for damage
- Avoid unnecessary driving
- Listen to the radio for information and instructions.
Other Sources of Disaster Preparedness Information
Information Available via Telephone
- City of Rohnert Park 24 hour Anytime Line at 707-585-6799: List of Disaster Preparedness information messages, dial 2600.
- Disaster Supplies Kit, dial 2602
- Emergency Alert System, dial 2604
- Emergency Management Office- General Information, dial 2606
- Emergency Planning Checklist, dial 2608
- Floods-General Information, dial 2610
- Hazardous Materials Incidents, General Information, dial 2612
- Health & Safety after a Disaster, dial 2614
- Returning Home after a Disaster, dial 2616
- What to do after a Flood, dial 2618
- What to do after a Hazardous Materials Incident, dial 2620
- What to do after an Earthquake, dial 2622
- What to do before a Flood, dial 2624
- What to do before a Hazardous Materials Incident, dial 2626
- What to do before an Earthquake, dial 2628
- Sonoma County Department of Emergency Services at 707-565-1152
- Sonoma County Red Cross at 707-577-7600
- Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety at 707-584-2600
Information Available via the Internet
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