By Donna Durckel
COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE
As the community prepares for El Niño’s impacts, the County reminds residents that the region also faces wildfire risks from Santa Ana winds and dry conditions. The National Weather Service forecasts these conditions this weekend.
The County urges residents to document household items and important records now in case they are unable to access their home following a disaster or for insurance claims.
Taking photos of your household belongings is an important step for emergency preparedness. Photograph valuable items and keep copies of documents, including receipts or appraisals for items, copies of mortgages, trusts and other vital documents. Add copies to your go-kit or save an electronic copy on a thumb drive.
Stay alert to fire‑weather advisories, avoid activities that can spark fires, secure trailer chains, dispose of cigarettes safely and keep household emergency go‑kits ready.
Having your documentation in hand is the best option, but the County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk’s office is a great backup if needed. They can help find official records such as birth, death and marriage certificates, business records and property records. Contact the office at ARCCHELP@sdcounty.ca.gov
MAKE A HOUSEHOLD EMERGENCY PLAN
Keeping important documents in a safe, easy-to-access place is an important step for your household emergency plan. Your plan should include:
Where to go if you are required to leave.
How to reconnect with your family.
What medications or supplies you might need.
How to care for your pets.
Which family, friends and neighbors may need extra help before or during an emergency.
You can learn more about different ways to prepare at the County’s El Niño Information Hub. The page is available in multiple languages and brings severe weather preparedness information together in one place. Resources include emergency alerts, sand and sandbag locations, current weather conditions, preparedness information and other tools residents may need before and during a storm.
Know where to get reliable information
Sign up for AlertSanDiego, the official emergency app for the County of San Diego, to receive emergency alerts and instructions.
This how-to video explains how to download, set up and use the app.