Local Disaster Threats

In El Cerrito, we face a number of threats to our normal lives, our homes, and our well-being. The "Big 3" disaster threats are earthquake, wildfire, and Public Safety Power Outage. The more prepared you are for these possible scenarios, the better you will fare during them. TAKE ACTION NOW to prepare for the “Big 3” disaster threats -- especially those living in the hillside areas.

Below are some resources that provide information about each disaster threat, and farther down are action steps that you can take to be more prepared.

*** INFORMATION RESOURCES for "big 3" disaster threats ****


EARTHQUAKE on the Hayward Fault


DIABLO WIND-DRIVEN wILDFIRE


PUBLIC SAFETY POWER shutdown

**** ACTIONS TO TAKE TOWARD DISASTER PREPAREDNESS ****

ACTION #1

-- Sign up for alerts
Sign up with the Contra Costa County Community Warning System (CWS) alert system. CWS can alert residents and businesses within Contra Costa County that are impacted by, or are in danger of being impacted by an emergency. The CWS message will include basic information about the incident and what specific protective actions (shelter in place, lockdown, evacuate, avoid the area, etc.) are necessary to protect life and health.
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ACTION #2

-- Water storage


Emergency water storage containers can provide water for your use during an emergency. A reliable water supply is an important part of any preparedness program. Following a major earthquake, EBMUD says that they will get most residential customers back online within 30 days. You need to be ready to have drinking, cooking, and sanitation water in the meantime. The most reliable way to assure adequate water is to store water at your home and office.

Three times per year, Lamorinda CERT organization offers water storage barrels (ready-to-fill, FDA Approved, food-grade empty plastic water barrels with associated drum wrenches, spigots, pumps and other accessories) for sale. Check their website for details. You can also contact CERT Program Manager Chris Hilliard for more information about this program.		  Water Storage Units_compressed


ACTION #3

--  Take the CERT survey

Community Emergency Response (CERT) teaches neighbors to help themselves and help each other. CERT offers hands-on training in Disaster First Aid, Disaster Preparedness, Basic Firefighting, Light Search and Rescue, Damage Assessment, and How to Turn Off Utilities.

Take the CERT survey to help inform the CERT organization about residents' concerns and to indicate interest in taking part in CERT.
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