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.
This page is your central hub for reliable information, resources, and proactive strategies to help ensure you and your loved ones are ready for any emergency.
Detailed winter preparedness information can be found HERE.
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.
Quick Resources
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Watch Duty Fire Alerts
A free app providing real-time fire incident alerts and updates. Get push notifications for active fires near Pine Mountain Club and the surrounding area.
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Kern Fire Safe Council
A local nonprofit dedicated to wildfire prevention and community preparedness across Kern County, offering resources, education, and outreach programs.
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Kern County Fire Department
The official site for Kern County Fire, featuring local fire news, safety resources, burn permits, and emergency updates for our region.
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Cal Fire
California's state firefighting agency. Find statewide fire incident information, prevention programs, and official guidance on living with wildfire risk.
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InciWeb Incident Tracking
The national incident information system for active wildfires and emergencies. Track current California incidents with maps, containment status, and situation reports.
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Wildfire Preparedness Guide
A comprehensive resource from Ready for Wildfire covering how to harden your home, create defensible space, and build a go-bag before wildfire season arrives.
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SCE Wildfire Safety
Southern California Edison's wildfire safety hub, including Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) updates, outage maps, and tips for protecting your home and electrical equipment.
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Firewise Livestream Workshop
Watch PMCPOA's recorded Firewise workshop covering practical steps residents can take to reduce wildfire risk around their homes and within our community.
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ShakeOut California
Join millions of Californians in the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill. Find drill resources, sign up for alerts, and learn how to drop, cover, and hold on when the ground shakes.
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California Earthquake Warning System
California's official earthquake early warning system, MyShake, can alert you seconds before shaking arrives. Learn how to sign up and what to do when a warning is issued.
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7 Steps to Earthquake Safety
The California Earthquake Authority's step-by-step guide to preparing before, during, and after an earthquake — from securing your home to building a disaster kit.
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USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
Track recent seismic activity and access scientific data on earthquake hazards from the U.S. Geological Survey, including real-time maps and historical earthquake records for California.
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 four valuable tools to help you get ready for natural disasters and stay connected during emergencies:
To sign up for Ready Kern, Kern County's emergency notification system, please visit www.ReadyKern.com or the express sign-up page here.
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. Click Here
The GMRS-based Radio Safety Net (RSN), a vital component of PMC's Emergency Preparedness Committee, helps ensure 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. Click Here
Get involved today to help refine and enhance our emergency communication processes.
Kern Fire Safe Council is a local 501(c)3 non-profit that helps Kern County communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from wildfires.
The organization works to reduce the risk of wildfire destruction by:
- Community Planning: Developing and updating the Kern County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) alongside local leaders and residents.
- Education & Outreach: Teaching school programs, participating in community events, and educating residents on the importance of "home hardening" and creating defensible spaces.
- Assessments & Assistance: Offering personalized Wildfire Safety Home Assessments and helping neighborhoods achieve recognition through the Firewise USA® program.
- Mitigation Projects: Securing grant funding (such as CAL FIRE Wildfire Prevention Grants) to implement critical, localized wildfire mitigation and community protection plans.
- And More!
https://kernfiresafe.org/
Primary Community Threat
Wildfire is a constant concern in mountain communities like ours. To protect lives, community, and property, it is essential for all residents and visitors to follow fire safety guidelines.
Fireworks of any kind are strictly prohibited in PMC and the surrounding forest.
Hazard Reduction Requirement & Home Hardening
Defensible space is essential for wildfire safety. According to Cal Fire, creating 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. Learn more at Cal Fire.
All property owners must complete hazard reduction by June 1 each year.
- Properties are inspected by Fire Department personnel.
- 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 hazard reduction flyer.
Home Hardening Checklist
PMCPOA's Emergency Preparedness Committee recommends the following measures:
- Roofs: Use fire-resistant materials. Keep valleys and gutters clear of debris.
- Eaves: Enclose eaves to prevent ember intrusion.
- Vents: Cover attic and other vents with 1/8-inch metal mesh.
- Walls: Use fire-resistant siding.
- Windows & Doors: Install dual-paned, tempered glass and seal gaps.
- Balconies & Decks: Use non-combustible materials; enclose undersides.
- Chimneys: Cover with ¼-inch non-flammable wire mesh.
- Sprinklers: Consider exterior systems and keep garden hoses connected.
Prepare an Evacuation Checklist
Gather and be ready to take the following with you:
- Medications, important documents, and photos
- Valuables, clothing, and toiletries
- Pet supplies
- Evacuation map with at least two routes
Practice your escape route and store critical papers in a fireproof safe.
If Evacuation Is a Possibility
- Load checklist items into your vehicle.
- Park facing outward; keep keys handy and your fuel tank full.
- Gather pets and livestock.
- Move flammable items away from structures.
- Wear protective clothing.
- Leave lights on; close windows; turn off air conditioning.
During an Evacuation
Follow all instructions from law enforcement and emergency personnel. You may be directed to assembly areas or designated safe locations.
If You Become Trapped
- In Your Vehicle: Park in a cleared area, close all windows, cover yourself with a blanket, and call 911.
- On Foot: Lie face down in a ditch or depression, cover up, and call 911.
- In Your Home: Stay inside, close all doors and windows, 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.
Returning Home
Fire officials will determine when it is safe to return. Carefully inspect your property for hidden embers or smoldering fires before settling back in.
