Respond: Special Notices

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How to Respond

Shelter-in-Place
Outside
Once it's Safe

 

When an emergency happens, you don't have time to learn what to do or how to proceed. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the basics of responding during an emergency so you can be prepared when the time comes. The City of Lancaster is most likely to experience wildfires, earthquakes and storms or floods. Below are ways you can prepare for each specific disaster to ensure you and your community are ready for potential disasters.

 

Southern California residents are no stranger to wildfire, but you can never be too prepared. Take a look at a few helpful resources we’ve compiled for you to make sure you and your family are prepared in the event of a wildfire emergency.

The first step to wildfire preparedness is prevention. Approximately 90% of all wildfires in California are caused by people. Follow a few simple tips to prevent sparks, and ultimately wildfires.

  • Mow before 10 a.m., but never when it’s windy or excessively dry.
  • Be aware that equipment with metal blades can strike rocks and create sparks that start fires.
  • Do not drive your vehicle onto dry grass or brush. Hot exhaust pipes and mufflers can start fires.
  • Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained.with nothing dragging on the ground that may throw sparks.

For more information on how to prevent wildfires, visit www.preventwildfireca.org/OneLessSpark

Get prepared for wildfire before it strikes by following Cal Fire's Ready, Set, Go!

Be Ready: Create and maintain defensible space and harden your home against flying embers.

Get Set: Prepare your family and home ahead of time for the possibility of having to evacuate.

Be Ready to GO!: Take the evacuation steps necessary to give your family and home the best chance of surviving a wildfire.

For more detailed information regarding Ready, Set, Go!, visit www.readyforwildfire.org/Ready-Set-Go-Campaign.

If during a wildfire you are curious or concerned about the air quality in your community, visit www.airnow.gov to receive up-to-date information regarding current air quality.

For tips about protecting your family from the effects of wildfire smoke, visit www.avaqmd.ca.gov. The Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District would like to remind you that if you have respiratory issues or heart disease, it is suggested that you remain indoors.

"Only you can prevent wildfires." -Smokey Bear

Fire Extinguishers

Knowing how to properly use a fire extinguisher could mean the difference between putting out a fire and losing your home, or worse. Check our this tip-sheet on Fire Extinguishers to learn or review some basic use and safety procedures. 

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