The fires in LA were a wake-up call for all of us.  But they are contained now and the rains have come.  Yet that does not mean we can ignore the threat of wildfires, even here in Laguna Woods Village.  The Foundation of Laguna Woods Village is partnering with VMS to help residents prepare  for the possibility of further wildfires and other emergencies.  This public education campaign will include different components such as media releases, a television series, and an emergency preparedness brochure.  The topics covered will include the importance of having a “go” bag ready, the alert systems to access, and how to use your smart phone to help in an emergency. In addition, new Public Service Announcements have been released and are included here. Click for your review:

                                                    Have a Go Bag
                                                             
                                                       Stay Alert

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                                  Planning for the Unpredictable

The Foundation has done a series of interviews with experts in various aspects of disaster preparation. Click on the titles of each to view them.
Part 1: Laguna Woods Village Director of Security Eric Nuñez (March 21, 2025)
Part 2: Orange County Fire Authority - Captain Thanh Nguyen (April  18, 2025)
Part 3: Orange County Sheriff's Authority - Captain Jack Ackerman ((May 19, 2025)
Part 4: Memorial Care Saddleback Medical Center - Dagian Cole
Part 5: Laguna Woods Village Security - Aaron Kennedy
Part 6: Earthquake Awareness & Preparedness - Grace Stencel

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​Instructions on obtaining and using this app are available by clicking on this sentence.

The Foundation has participated along with Laguna Woods Village to prepare this brochure on emergency preparation. Click here to view it.

The Orange County Fire Authority has important information on disaster planning. View it here.

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This graphic can be printed and posted in a conspicuous place on your residence to tell others that you would need help in a disaster emergency. Right Click it to save it to a location on your device for printing.

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                   Your Smartphone: A Lifeline in Emergencies
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Your smartphone can be a lifesaver in an emergency. Here are three simple but crucial steps to enhance your preparedness:

1. Receive emergency alerts. Sign up for CodeRED (Village) and OCAlert (Orange County) to get critical updates on wildfires and other emergencies. Enable Government Alerts in your phone’s settings (under Notifications on iPhone; Wireless Emergency Alerts [WEA] on Android).
2. Set an ICE contact. Add an “in case of emergency” (ICE) contact to your phone—someone local who knows your health history and can respond quickly.
3. Save essential contacts. Store key contacts, including family, doctors, pharmacy, police, fire and local hospitals.
4. Keep your smartphone charged. Always charge your phone and consider a backup power pack for emergencies.

 
Your Smartphone Can Protect Important Documents
Wildfires can destroy irreplaceable records and photos, but your smartphone can safeguard them. Scan and store copies of:

• Driver’s license, passport and Social Security card
• Medication list and health insurance cards
• Insurance policies and other essential documents
• Family and pet photos for identification

 
Need help? Watch YouTube tutorials or visit the Village computer clubs (Mac Club for iPhones, PC Club for Androids) on the third floor of the Community Center (24351 El Toro Road). Volunteers and scanning equipment are available to assist you.
 
This simple step ensures your most important information stays secure—no tech expertise required!
 

​NOW IS THE TIME!
 
The fires are contained. The rains have arrived. Now is the perfect time to prepare—before the next emergency strikes. Do you have your “go” bag ready? If not, this is your chance to get organized while the pressure is off.

                                             What Is a “Go” Bag?

​A “go” bag is an emergency kit packed with essential items you’ll need if you have to evacuate quickly. It should be easily accessible—perhaps by the door or in your vehicle—and light enough to carry. A backpack or a wheeled bag works best.

What Should Be in Your "Go" Bag?While personal needs vary, some essentials belong in every “go” bag:

• Medications – Pack at least a few days’ supply.
• Food and water – Think nonperishables: protein bars, dried fruit, nuts, instant oatmeal and at least one gallon of water per person per day.
• Personal hygiene items – Toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, deodorant and any other essentials.
• Important documents – Passport, driver’s license, insurance cards and other key paperwork.
• Whistle – To signal for help if needed.
• First aid kit – Be ready for minor injuries.
• Flashlight and extra batteries – Power outages are common in emergencies.
• Battery-powered radio – Stay informed with emergency updates (don’t forget extra batteries).
• Cash in small bills – ATMs may be unavailable.
• Change of clothes – Comfortable and weather-appropriate.
• Emergency shelter items – A poncho, tarp or space blanket to stay dry.

 
Smart AdditionsConsider packing a portable phone charger, extra prescription glasses, pet supplies or any other items specific to your household’s needs. Don’t forget to check and refresh your go bag regularly.
 
For more tips on emergency preparedness, visit sce.com and sce.com/safety/family/emergency-tips, and check out SCE’s “Emergency Preparedness Guide.”
 
Be prepared. Stay safe. Now is the time!

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The California Department of Aging has prepared an emergency preparedness guide specifically designed to help older adults and people with disabilities prepare for emergencies to ensure they stay safe before, during, and after disasters and other emergency events. ​. Click here to view it.

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