September is National Preparedness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of building a resilient, well-prepared community. With wildfires becoming an ever-present danger across California and the South Bay along the San Andreas Fault, the need for preparedness in Saratoga cannot be underestimated.
The city of Saratoga is taking proactive steps to enhance its readiness. Guided by the Santa Clara County Office of Emergency Management, our city leaders and department heads have worked on strengthening Emergency Operations Center (EOC) protocols. Recently, the Saratoga Public Safety Fair brought together local and countywide agencies to educate residents on practical strategies to prepare for emergencies. In addition, we are actively promoting enrollment in vital emergency notification systems like AlertSCC, Santa Clara County’s official alert and warning system, and Genasys, an evacuation management tool and notification system.
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For communities situated near wildfire-prone areas, the stakes are particularly high. Saratoga, surrounded by dense forests and in proximity to open spaces like Sanborn County Park and the Santa Cruz Mountains, is especially vulnerable during fire season. Emergency preparedness is not just a precaution; it’s a necessity. Our commitment to safety is underscored by Saratoga’s recent designation as a 2024 Fire Risk Reduction Community from the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection.
As a community, we must continue to prioritize preparedness. I urge every resident to make this the year they get ready for wildfire, winter storms, and earthquakes. Start by clearing defensible space around your property to reduce fire risks. Learn your evacuation routes and build emergency survival kits for your home and car. Most importantly, develop a family communications plan to stay connected during an emergency and sign up for AlertSCC and Genasys to stay informed.
Preparedness isn’t just about protecting homes; it’s about preserving lives and ensuring the safety of our entire community.
Yan Zhao is the mayor of Saratoga.
