If this week’s earthquake in Russia and resultant West Coast tsunami warnings elevated your awareness of potential disasters, head to San Mateo on Saturday, Aug. 2, for a refresher course on what to do when the unexpected happens.
The county’s 21st annual Disaster Preparedness Day, a family-friendly event that’s open to all Bay Area residents, will offer hands-on training, workshops on CPR and emergency skills, displays by local emergency responders and activities for kids.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the San Mateo County Event Center, 1346 Saratoga Drive, San Mateo. Admission and parking are free, and no registration is required.
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“Just look around the nation: catastrophic flooding in the Midwest and South, heat waves in the North, fires burning in the West,” said David Canepa, president of the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, in an event announcement. “A disaster can strike at any time, anywhere, and now is the time to get prepared by building your knowledge, learning key skills and developing a plan.”
Representatives of Cal Fire and local fire departments, the Red Cross and nonprofits such as the Center for Independence for Individuals with Disabilities will be on hand to offer guidance.
Attendees can learn how to create a family emergency plan, pack a go bag, take home emergency supplies, sign up for emergency alerts (in English, Spanish or Mandarin) and more.
Kids will get a chance to meet search-and-rescue horses, attend storytime with a firefighter and climb aboard fire engines and other vehicles, said Dr. Shruti Dhapodkar, director of the county’s Department of Emergency Management.