CLIMATE RESILIENCE & DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
Disasters can happen at any time. Whether it’s wildfires, hurricanes, earthquakes, or extreme heat, being prepared can make all the difference. The CORE California Climate Resilience and Disaster Preparedness (CRDP) team reflected on one question: What’s the most important thing everyone should know when it comes to disaster preparedness? Here’s what they shared:
Take small steps. Starting your preparedness journey can feel overwhelming. Begin by setting aside emergency supplies like a flashlight, water, and nonperishable food. Then, make time to draft a family plan or sign up for emergency notifications. Small efforts now can make a big difference later.
Connect with your community. Talk with your neighbors about your emergency plans and how you can support each other during a disaster. Knowing who might need extra help (like older adults or people with disabilities) creates a stronger, safer network. Community coordination improves everyone’s ability to act quickly and effectively.
Always consider the worst-case scenario. Plan as if the most challenging outcome could happen—extended power outages, compromised shelter, blocked roads, or limited communication. This mindset ensures you’re better equipped to adapt while you’re navigating overwhelming and often unpredictable situations.
Be proactive, not reactive. Disasters strike with little or no warning, so preparation ahead of time is critical. Building a go-bag and mapping evacuation routes during blue skies reduces stress and confusion when real emergencies occur.
Browse the Listos Disaster Resource Hub to find downloadable preparedness guides, fact sheets, and resources in multiple languages. This is a key asset to promote community preparedness published by our funder, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), through the Listos California initiative. Learn more >>
CORE CRDP team works year-round to ensure people have the tools and resources to stay safe during disasters. From back-to-school resource fairs, to public wildfire mitigation support, the team is committed to building stronger, more resilient communities throughout California. To learn more about the program, visit the California Climate page.