August is National Emergency Preparedness Month: Prepare Today, Be Ready Tomorrow

August is National Emergency Preparedness Month, a time to recognize the emergency management professionals, first responders, government agencies, and community partners who work year-round to prepare Contra Costa County for emergencies. 

It is also an opportunity for residents to take a few simple steps to prepare themselves, their families, and their communities. 

Emergencies can happen with little warning. Extreme heat, poor air quality, wildfires, earthquakes, severe weather, and other unexpected events can disrupt everyday life and essential services. Preparing before an emergency happens can help residents make informed decisions, take care of basic needs, and stay connected when it matters most. 

Why Emergency Preparedness Matters 

During an emergency, power, communications, transportation, and other services may be disrupted. At the same time, emergency responders may need to focus on people with the most urgent needs. 

Being prepared helps residents and families respond with greater confidence while allowing emergency agencies to concentrate on critical response efforts. It also strengthens the ability of neighbors and communities to support one another. 

Preparedness can start with a few simple steps: 

• Know your risks: Learn about the hazards that could affect your community.  

• Stay informed: Sign up for emergency alerts and follow reliable sources of information.  

• Make a plan: Know how your household will communicate and respond during an emergency.  

• Build an emergency kit: Keep essential supplies available in case services are disrupted.  

• Plan for everyone: Consider the needs of children, older adults, people with disabilities or access and functional needs, and pets.  

Contra Costa County’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) works with cities, County departments, special districts, government agencies, and community organizations to coordinate resources and strengthen emergency preparedness and response. Residents are an important part of that effort. 

Preparedness Resources 

County OES provides information and resources to help residents prepare for a variety of hazards, including: 

• Extreme heat and heat-related illness  

• Air quality and smoke  

• Wildfire preparedness and mitigation  

• Weather conditions and forecasts  

• Disaster preparedness  

• Water and wastewater alerts  

• Disability and access and functional needs preparedness  

• Personal disaster readiness through Listos  

More emergency information can be viewed on the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s page. Residents can also learn about Air Quality Report, and Heat Safety Tips, along with preparedness resources from Cal OES, the National Weather Service, and CAL FIRE. Ready.gov is another great resource.

Sign up for Emergency Alert Notifications

The Community Warning System (CWS) is the all-hazard public warning notification system for Contra Costa County. CWS alerts you through phone calls, text messages, email, the sounding of sirens, this website, and social media, when a potentially life or health-threatening hazard requires you to take action. 

Upcoming Preparedness Opportunities 

Throughout August and the coming months, residents can participate in events, exercises, and activities focused on emergency preparedness:

September 3: City of Concord Emergency Preparedness Fair 
5:30–8:00 p.m. | Todos Santos Plaza, Concord 

September 10: Contra Costa County Community Resource Fair 
1:00–4:00 p.m. | Contra Costa County Administration Building, Martinez 

September 19: Chevron Richmond Refinery Community Tour Day & Car Show 
10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. | Registration required 

Take the First Step 

Emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be complicated. Know your risks, make a plan, stay informed, and keep essential supplies on hand. 

Whether you’re preparing your household, attending a community event, or participating in emergency management training, every step helps strengthen Contra Costa County’s ability to respond to emergencies. 

Preparedness starts before an emergency happens. This August, prepare today so you can be ready tomorrow.