FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media contacts: Lt. Bob Dunn (714) 497-6330
ANAHEIM FIRE & RESCUE WANTS YOU TO “BE DISASTER AWARE, TAKE ACTION TO PREPARE”
ANAHEIM, Calif. (August 29, 2014) – September is National Preparedness Month and Anaheim Fire & Rescue wants residents to be ready in the event of a disaster or major emergency. This year’s theme, “Be Disaster Aware, Take Action to Prepare” focuses on increasing emergency preparedness for everyone including residents, families, neighborhoods, schools and businesses.
By taking simple steps to connect, plan, build and practice, one can establish the foundation for emergency preparedness. Each week in September, Anaheim Fire & Rescue will highlight one aspect of being prepared through digital media tools. Residents are encouraged to “like” Anaheim Fire & Rescue on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@AnaheimFire) with #NatlPrepAnaheim to receive the simple suggestions that can help prepare you in the event of an emergency.
The first week of September focuses on how to reconnect with family and friends after a disaster. By making a communication plan and reviewing it with loved ones you will know how to locate them if separated. Knowing how to plan for specific needs is the focus of the second week in September.
“Planning needs may vary for children, seniors, college students as well as those with disabilities and/or animals,” said Fire Chief Randy R. Bruegman. “Follow us on our social media channels for simple steps to make sure you are prepared.”
The third and fourth weeks of September will focus on building a kit and practicing for an emergency.
Emergency kits are more than just food and water. “Think of it as an unexpected camping trip and your gear will need to keep you warm, fed, healthy and allow you to stay in contact with others,” said Battalion Chief Alan Long who is responsible for the City’s Emergency Management and Preparedness. “You and your family are encouraged to practice your family evacuation plan and reuniting at your chosen meeting site.”
Anaheim Fire & Rescue also offers more advanced training through the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program. Information regarding specific elements of emergency preparedness can be found at www.anaheim.net/prepare and CERT training information is available at www.anaheim.net/CERT.
DURING NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
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425 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92805 | 714-765-1521 Fax: 714-765-1554
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE
Randy R. Bruegman, Fire Chief