September is Emergency Preparedness Month! The La Verne Fire Department (LVFD) and the La Verne Police Department (LVPD) encourage residents to register for Nixle notifications, learn about emergency preparedness tactics and take the steps to be prepared at all times.
In the event of an emergency, preparation can make a critical, life-saving difference. The City reminds its residents to sign up for the City’s emergency alert system, Nixle, by texting “91750” to 888777. Nixle provides timely notifications via text or email during emergency situations including fires, earthquakes, closed roads, evacuation orders and other public safety concerns.
“Signing up for the City’s Nixle account takes less than a minute, but that minute has long-term benefits for you and your loved ones,” said La Verne Police Chief Colleen Flores. “Staying informed is the first step to properly responding to any emergency that might come our way.”
In the event of an emergency or natural disaster, LVFD and LVPD will be at the front line actively responding to the situation. In addition to coordinating efforts to mitigate the impacts of a disaster, staff will also help guide community members to safe areas, such as shelters or evacuation zones.
Although LVFD and LVPD are well equipped to respond to emergencies, it is critical that residents know what to do before a disaster strikes. As a community based in Southern California, La Verne is vulnerable to dangerous natural disasters, such as earthquakes. To remain prepared, residents should create their own emergency plan that includes arrangements for shelter, evacuation and communication with loved ones and emergency service providers.
Residents should also make a supply kit with basic items, such as:
- Nonperishable food
- Water
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Fire extinguisher
- First aid kit
- Dust mask
- Whistle
- Local maps
These emergency kits should be kept in a cool, dry place and filtered through periodically to replace expired items.
In addition to making sure your family is safe, you can help keep the entire La Verne community safe by volunteering to train with the La Verne Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). As part of the CERT program, residents receive training from LVFD on disaster preparation and response to help themselves and others in the event of an emergency. When called upon, CERT members assist La Verne first responders during and after a major disaster.
“I urge the entire La Verne community to get involved in emergency preparedness and ensure their households are ready to take action before an emergency event,” stated La Verne Fire Chief Chris Nigg. “While preparation prioritizes you and your family’s safety in uncertain circumstances, it also alleviates pressure from first responders, urgent care centers, hospitals and grocery stores.”
The City of La Verne is always available to answer questions and guide residents on emergency planning efforts. For more information on how to better prepare yourself and your family for disaster, visit FEMA’s website.