September is National Preparedness Month and this year’s theme is “Start a Conversation.” It’s a time to raise awareness about emergencies and disasters that can occur in our area. Talking to loved ones and having an emergency plan is one of the most valuable things we can do before an emergency happens. You can discuss:

1. Who is responsible for taking care of vulnerable family members
2. Who will pick up the kids from school if phones are not working and we can’t get in touch with one another
3. What meeting location is best if anyone becomes separated

City of Goleta’s Emergency Services Coordinator Michael Baris said, “Most importantly, emergency plans are not perfect when they are first made. It takes time to form a good plan and it will change over time. It’s okay if an idea or plan is not perfect, what’s most important is that you have a plan.”

Should you want help in making a family plan, all Goleta residents can request a free, one-hour Community Disaster Education (CDE) course (for groups of 10 or more). A CDE introduces the basics of disaster preparedness to anyone and is available in English and Spanish. To learn more about this course watch a short promo video here. Complete an interest form at www.CityofGoleta.org/CDE.

The County of Santa Barbara also has some tips on how to take action during National Preparedness Month:

1. Make or Update Your Disaster Plan: Creating a disaster plan is as easy as having a conversation with your household about what you will do before, during, and after an emergency. Having discussions will empower your family to take control of their safety and survival during a disaster.
2. Build or Refresh Your Disaster Supply Kit: Tailor your disaster supply kit to your household. Be sure to include basic items your household may need as well as any items for household members with medical needs or comfort items for kids. Make it an activity with your loved ones and see how many items you can find around your home and place in a bin in five minutes.
3. Make Sure Your Pets Are Included: Although we can’t talk through our family’s emergency plan with our pets, it is still important to include them in your planning. Remember to plan for your large animals, including transportation and sheltering in the event of an evacuation.
4. Meet Your Neighbors: During a disaster, knowing your neighbors and any special considerations they may have can be lifesaving.   
5. Sign Up For ReadySBC Alerts or Update Your Contact Information: To receive these emergency notifications from the County, you must sign up for alerts. If you’re already signed up, confirm or update your account information this month. Be sure to spell out your entire street address, this is a common reason that community members don’t receive alerts. If we can’t reach you, we can’t alert you.
6. Get Familiar With ReadySBC.org: Learn more about local hazards and how to best prepare for yourself and your loved ones.
7. Follow the County Office of Emergency Management on social media: During National Preparedness Month, we’ll be sharing information about preparing for specific types of emergencies. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook at @SBCountyOEM.