Emergency Preparedness in Alameda: Protecting Yourself from Natural Disasters
Did you know that nearly 60% of Californians feel unprepared for a natural disaster? With the risk of earthquakes, wildfires, and other emergencies looming over Alameda, understanding how to safeguard yourself and your family is more crucial than ever. Preparation is not just a safety measure; it’s an empowerment tool that can save lives.
In an exclusive interview with Pete Alimi, an environmental health and safety manager at Alameda Health System (AHS), we explored essential steps for local families to stay safe during crises. “Every family should have an emergency preparedness plan and kit,” Alimi asserts. Here are four fundamental components to focus on:
- Water: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day, aiming for a minimum three-day supply. In emergencies, having clean drinking water is non-negotiable.
- Non-perishable food: Keep a stock of non-perishable food items for at least three days, ideally extending to two weeks if possible.
- First-aid supplies and essentials: Update first-aid kits regularly, and include items like flashlights, radios, blankets, and dry clothing. For a more extensive checklist, consult the American Red Cross.
- Plan for phone service disruptions: Create a reliable family meeting point to ensure everyone is accounted for if communication fails.
Earthquakes pose a systemic risk, not just to individuals but to essential community infrastructure. Alameda Hospital’s operational continuity following such an event is paramount. In response, AHS is prioritizing critical seismic updates to the hospital. The contractor responsible for the retrofit has already mobilized, and project coordination is actively underway. For more on these updates, click here.
AHS is also strategically preparing for various emergencies affecting local residents, including power outages and infectious disease outbreaks. Regular drills enable rapid response, ensuring health systems can adapt swiftly when crises arise. As Alimi noted, “In disasters, communication is the most important factor,” emphasizing the need for effective internal collaboration.
While families gear up to protect their households, local healthcare providers like AHS are equally invested in ensuring uninterrupted, lifesaving care amidst any chaos. “Our mission is caring, healing, teaching, and serving all, and preparedness is part of that promise,” Alimi reassured, reflecting the organization’s commitment to community resilience.
Healthy Alameda is a healthcare column provided by Alameda Health System (AHS), the public safety-net health system that serves all in Alameda County. AHS operates five facilities in the City of Alameda, including Alameda Hospital, Creedon Advanced Wound Care Center, Park Bridge Rehabilitation and Wellness, South Shore Rehabilitation and Wellness, and Marina Wellness and Surgical Associates.
