Introduction to Disaster Preparedness in Encino

It's an unfortunate reality but there are no good ways for residents of Encino to find out how to protect themselves. For a useful introduction check this state website for its many useful tips. In the event of a disaster, this is the best one to follow things, but we may have no electricity...

Why bother? Because the Fire Department guys will be the first to tell you, in the event of a major disaster, "We aren't coming." They have other priorities. After Hurricane Katrina, it was weeks before many were rescued. If there is a major earthquake affecting Encino and the water supply stops and roads are wrecked, families will need at least a week's worth of emergency water and food. The Fire Department recommends even more than that. Imagine if you're stuck in a small apartment.

One way to prepare is to enrol in a CERT-LA class, which is taught by the Fire Department. Usually it is a 7-week class one night a week. Click here then look for the closest one that would work for you. In Encino they used to be held at the Presbyterian Church on Balboa across from the Fire Station but they seem to have been discontinued. Now there are only Saturday ones organized by the Chamber of Commerce, but they charge $40, which is not smart. If you are still interested, call Encino Chamber of Commerce and ask when their next CERT-LA class is.

The best local resource (and really the only one) is SOS Survival Products at 15705 Strathern St # 11, Van Nuys, CA 91406-1307. 800-479-7998. Here is their website. There you can find large barrels for emergency drinking water (55 gallon drums), fire extinguishers, wind-up flashlights, emergency battery-powered radios, tablets for water purification, gloves, goggles and other essentials. I have also seen fire extinguishers at Costco.