Natural Disaster Preparedness: Safeguarding Our Community Together
The safety and well-being of our residents and guests is a top priority. Nestled within a picturesque yet dynamic landscape, our community must remain vigilant and prepared for natural disasters such as wildfires, earthquakes and power outages. Here is your central hub for reliable information, resources, and proactive strategies to ensure you and your loved ones are ready for any emergency. Detailed winter preparedness information can be found HERE.
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Explore our guides on disaster preparedness, learn about community emergency response efforts, and find tips to protect your home and property. Together, we can build resilience and foster a culture of readiness, keeping our mountain community strong and secure through every season.
FIVE EASY STEPS TO BE DISASTER READY:
GET ALERTS
to know what to do.
MAKE A PLAN
to protect your people.
PACK A GO BAG
with things you need.
BUILD A STAY BOX
for when you can't leave.
HELP
friends and neighbors get ready.
Get Prepared Before Disaster Strikes
Here are three valuable tools to help you get ready for natural disasters and stay connected during emergencies:
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Planning Guide:
This Disaster Ready Guide walks you through the steps to prepare in advance, from creating a family emergency plan to securing your home and assembling essential supplies. It's your roadmap to readiness! -
Resource List:
Below is a a curated list of essential links to tools and information to support your disaster preparedness. While not exhaustive, it’s a great starting point to ensure you have the resources needed for any emergency. -
Join the Radio Safety Net (RSN):
The GMRS-based Radio Safety Net (RSN), a vital component of PMC's Emergency Preparedness Committee, ensures our community stays connected during disasters. Efforts are ongoing to strengthen the central repeater, train members, and collaborate with PMC Patrol, public safety agencies, and local amateur radio groups. Get involved today to help refine and enhance our emergency communication processes!​
The most important step is to begin planning now. If you have suggestions for additional resources or tools to include, please email the communications team. Together, we can build a safer, more resilient, and better-prepared community!
WEATHER + ROAD
Wildfire Preparedness and Safety
Wildfire is a constant concern in mountain communities like ours. To protect lives, community and property, it's essential for all residents and visitors to follow fire safety guidelines.
Please note that fireworks of any kind are strictly prohibited in PMC and the surrounding forest.
Hazard Reduction Requirement & Home Hardening
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Defensible space is essential for wildfire safety. According to Cal Fire, creating a defensible space acts as a vital buffer, slowing or stopping the spread of wildfires while protecting homes from radiant heat and direct flames. It also provides a safer environment for firefighters to defend your property. Visit Cal Fire to learn more.
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Stay prepared and vigilant to keep PMC safe from wildfire threats. All property owners must complete hazard reduction by June 1 each year. Properties are inspected by Fire Department personnel, and violations result in a $500 citation. Property owners have 15 days from the citation mailing date to dispute it or provide proof of correction. For detailed hazard reduction guidelines, read the Kern County Fire flyer.
PMCPOA’s Emergency Preparedness Committee provides these essential tips to fortify your home against wildfire:
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Roofs: Use fire-resistant materials. Keep valleys and gutters clear of debris where embers can lodge.
Eaves: Enclose eaves to prevent embers from igniting exposed wood.
Vents: Cover attic and other vents with 1/8-inch metal mesh to block ember entry.
Walls: Opt for fire-resistant siding to prevent embers from igniting combustible surfaces.
Windows & Doors: Install dual-paned windows with tempered glass and seal gaps to prevent ember entry.
Balconies & Decks: Use non-combustible materials, and enclose undersides with fire-resistant materials.
Chimneys: Cover chimney and stovepipe outlets with a ¼-inch non-flammable wire mesh.
Sprinklers: Consider installing an exterior sprinkler system and keep garden hoses connected.​
Evacuation Preparedness
Be ready when wildfire strikes: Essential steps to stay safe before, during, and after an evacuation.
Prepare an evacuation checklist with:
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Medications, important documents, and photos.
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Valuables, change of clothing, and toiletries.
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Pet supplies and an evacuation map with at least two routes.
Practice your escape route and ensure critical papers are stored in a fireproof safe.
If Evacuation Is a Possibility
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Load your evacuation checklist items into your vehicle.
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Park facing outward and keep keys handy, maintain a full tank or gas.
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Gather pets and livestock for transport.
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Move flammable items, like BBQ appliances, away from structures.
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Wear protective clothing and leave lights on in your home with windows closed and air conditioning off.
During an Evacuation
Follow law enforcement and emergency personnel instructions. You may be directed to assembly areas or safe locations.
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If You Become Trapped
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In Your Vehicle: Park in a cleared area, close windows, and cover yourself with a blanket. Call 911.
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On Foot: Lie face down in a ditch or depression, cover up, and call 911.
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In Your Home: Stay inside, keep doors and windows closed, fill sinks and tubs with water, and call 911.
After the Fire Passes
Check for fires on your roof, under decks, in the attic, and around the yard. Avoid downed power lines and inspect propane systems before use.
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Returning Home
Fire officials will determine when it is safe to return. Inspect your property for hidden embers or smoldering fires.