From earthquakes and wildfires to tsunamis and power outages, emergencies are always a possibility in Alameda. The key to staying safe is preparation.
We spoke with Pete Alimi, Alameda Health System (AHS) environmental health and safety manager, about concrete steps you can take to stay safe during the next emergency.
Alimi says every family should have an emergency preparedness plan and kit. Here are four essential things to prepare:
- Water. Fill up water jugs with at least one gallon per person, per day. A three-day supply is the minimum amount you need. Having drinking water readily available is critical, in case public infrastructure is not functioning.
- Non-perishable food. Keep a three-day supply of non-perishable food on-hand, or up to two weeks’ worth if you plan to stay home throughout the emergency.
- First-aid supplies and essentials. Having up-to-date first-aid supplies is critical in an emergency, when injuries are more likely. Other essential items include flashlights and radios, blankets, and extra dry clothes. Alimi recommends checking the full American Red Cross earthquake kit safety-preparedness checklist.
- Plan for phone service disruptions. Create a plan with your family members about where to meet, in case communication is out.
Earthquakes are not just a threat to individuals. It is critical that Alameda Hospital is able to stay open and continue operating in the immediate aftermath of an earthquake.
To that end, AHS is supporting the City of Alameda Health Care District in making critical seismic updates to the Alameda Hospital building. The contractor responsible for the seismic retrofit has already started work, and the planning, testing, and project coordination is underway. Read more about the planned seismic updates here…