Living in Goleta we have the threat of earthquakes, wildfires and floods. Some residents may feel fully prepared for an emergency while others may feel overwhelmed at the thought of having to evacuate. Here are some tips for how to prepare now so you can be ready for the next emergency:

• Have a pre-packed disaster preparedness kit. This should include at least three days of food, water, medicine and personal care items. It is also a good idea to include a first aid kit, flashlight(s) and extra chargers. Remember to pack food and water for your pets too. Click here for more ideas for your kit.
• Have your important papers ready. Think about the papers you would need if you lost everything. Make copies and/or scan and put them on a flash drive so you can grab and go.
• Know your escape route. Start thinking about how you will get out of town (roads may be blocked) and where you will go. Much of it depends on the type of emergency, but it is a good idea to start thinking about it ahead of time.
• Have a communications plan. You probably have everyone’s contact information in your phone, but also keep important numbers on a piece of paper in case your phone battery dies. Also have numbers for people living out of state, as you may need to communicate through them if phone lines are down locally.

Visit our website at http://www.cityofgoleta.org/projects-programs/emergency-preparedness for more information on how to prepare yourself for an emergency.