CONTACT: Grahame Watts, Emergency Services Administrator, gwatts@toaks.org; 805-449-2453

       Alexandra South, Director of Strategic Communications and Public Affairs, asouth@toaks.org; 805-449-2120

 National Preparedness Month

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif., September 4, 2024 - FEMA has declared September as National Preparedness Month, a time for residents to review and update their emergency plans and supplies. The City of Thousand Oaks encourages everyone to take proactive steps to ensure their safety and well-being during unexpected events. Each year, FEMA selects a theme to connect with focused population groups that may be disproportionately affected by disasters. They announced that the 2024 theme is focused on preparing Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities for risks and disasters. Tailored messaging will include culturally relevant information and tools to help the AANHPI communities prepare for emergencies across generations and within neighborhoods.   

All members of our community should plan to participate in National Preparedness Month by utilizing both national and local resources to build emergency kits, plans, and more.  

Key Preparedness Tips: 

• Create a family emergency plan: Designate an out-of-town contact, assemble essential documents, and determine evacuation routes. Get started at readyventuracounty.org/plan.
• Build a disaster supply kit: Gather supplies such as food, water, first aid supplies, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, and a manual can opener. Visit ready.gov/kit to get started today. 
• Learn first aid and CPR: Knowing basic first aid and CPR skills can save lives during emergencies. Los Robles Hospital hosts regular classes; learn more at losrobleshospital.com about upcoming opportunities. 
• Stay informed: Follow local news and City social media to stay updated on preparation tips and potential threats, and sign up for emergency notifications at readyventuracounty.org. 

In recognition of National Preparedness Month, the City is partnering with Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to host Safety Day on September 14, 2024, to educate residents about emergency preparedness. For more information on this free, family-friendly event, visit a42.asmdc.org/events.  

Residents are also encouraged to take their preparedness skills to the next level by participating in a free Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training that begins September 18, 2024. Register for your spot today at toaks.co/cert.  

More information on Emergency Preparedness Month can be found at ready.gov/september. 

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