The reality is that in the event of a major disaster, emergency responders will likely spend the first 72 hours addressing community issues. They will need to evaluate the safety of public buildings, determine if roads and bridges are secure, and travel through the community to access the overall damage. Emergency responders may be unable to help individuals for several days.
What can you do to prepare for such an incident? Participate in the Community Emergency Preparedness Academy and learn how to care for your family. The first class will be held on Tuesday, April 1 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Oak Knoll Village Club. Classes will continue every Tuesday for the next eight weeks.
Orange County Fire Authority Battalion Chief Scott Brown says the topics covered in the Academy are a good blend of the skills needed following a major disaster and other skills that are transferable to more common incidents, such as car accidents, house fires and medical emergencies like heart attacks and choking.
Academy participants will learn how to perform CPR, provide basic first aid and operate external defibrillators. They will learn basic home search and rescue operations; how to access the emergency radio system and operate a home fire extinguisher.
“The Academy is especially valuable for residents living in rural canyon communities, such as Ladera Ranch. These areas are especially vulnerable to fires and earthquakes,” explains Battalion Chief Brown.
The Academy is presented collaboratively by The Orange County Sheriff’s Department, Orange County Fire Authority, Medix Ambulance Service, American Red Cross, Santa Margarita Water District and Mission Hospital.
To register or learn more about the Academy visit www.laderasafety.com.
Class size is limited and reservations are required.
Filed under: Ladera Ranch
