Our thoughts are with those  individuals who are cleaning up and recovering after this last weekend's 6.0 Napa earthquake -- the biggest in the Bay Area since the 1989 Loma Prieta.

Anyone who would like to help with Napa's relief efforts should donate to the American Red Cross. 

Seismologists warn that we should be prepared for aftershocks over the next several weeks that could also cause further damage.

This is a good time to check and restock our emergency kits (if you already have one), start making a kit (if you haven't yet created one), and update our emergency contacts.

Because the Napa quake struck at 3:20 a.m. and left many neighborhoods without power, I'd suggest keeping a flashlight and battery powered (or hand cranked) radio nearby.  After personally seeing some of the earthquake damage, I'd also suggest securing tall furniture, like bookcases, china cabinets, and hutches, to walls.

Here's a short list of essential items you should have in your emergency kit which should last you for at least 7 days:

• Battery powered or hand cranked radio
• Flashlight
• Water
• Non-perishable food
• Medication
• Emergency contact list
• Pet food and supplies

For additional information about disaster preparedness, here are some helpful weblinks:

• Contra Costa County Office of Emergency Services 
• Governor's Office of Emergency Services 
• FEMA/Ready.gov
• America's PrepareAthon
• SF72

Our local cities also provide great emergency response training (CERT) to residents for free. Check with your city for further information. 

 

Prepare.  Plan.  Stay informed. 

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