September is National Preparedness Month. Sacramento County’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) reminds everyone that preparing now can help protect you, your family and your community during an emergency.
This year’s theme, “Stand Ready,” encourages everyone to take simple steps to prepare before an emergency happens.
OES works year-round with cities, first responders and other partners to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Sacramento County faces many hazards, including wildfires, floods, severe weather, extreme heat and power outages.
While we cannot always predict when an emergency will happen, we can take steps to be ready.
Know what to do before an emergency
Start with these simple steps:
- Sign up for emergency alerts. Sacramento Alert can send critical information by phone, text and email, including evacuation notices, flooding, severe weather and other emergencies.
- Know your evacuation zone. Find your zone and learn the best ways to leave your neighborhood.
- Build an emergency kit. Keep food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies and other items your household may need.
- Make a family communication plan. Decide how you will contact each other and where you will meet if you are separated during an emergency.
- Plan for power outages. Keep flashlights and portable chargers ready. Plan for anyone who relies on electricity for medical equipment or other needs.
- Include pets and livestock. Make sure you have a plan to keep animals safe and know where you can take them if you must evacuate.
Get Sacramento County emergency alerts
One of the easiest ways to prepare is to make sure you can receive emergency information.
Sacramento Alert (SacAlert) is the County’s emergency notification system. Residents can sign up to receive alerts by phone, text and email. Alerts are available in English and Spanish.
Sign up for Sacramento Alert at sacramentoready.saccounty.gov
While Sacramento County OES is dedicated to your safety year-round, you can be too. Take time during National Preparedness Month to talk to your family and neighbors about your plans during an emergency. Disasters can happen at any time, but you don’t have to be scared if you’re prepared.