FRESNO (KMJ) — Recent mass shootings, severe weather, and wildfires, are all prompting a call for Central Valley residents to get ready for the worst.
“The first thing to do is know what kind of disasters impact our area,” established Ken Austin with the Fresno County Office of Emergency Services.
He was one of a number of local officials who came together inside Fresno’s Woodward Library Monday evening to let locals know what they need to do to prepare.
“Flooding and fires have been recent events, not only throughout the state but here in our own county. Most of our fires are wildfires up in the mountains but our flooding has come down through our rivers and impacted all parts our county.”
Building a plan is considered an important first step to withstanding catastrophe.
“Knowing what supplies you need to keep, what you might be without if there is a disaster: say we lose electricity or you can’t fuel up your car.
“Always be aware that a disaster will strike at a time we least expect it.”
Tips also include storing extra food and establishing a means of communication without using cellphones. The federal government’s website ready.gov (click for more) has more on what you need to do before catastrophe strikes.
But Austin added that knowing when to leave is also important.
“Be prepared in the event that something is quick moving to get in your car and get out of there quickly.”
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
