September is National Preparedness Month and this year’s theme is “Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead. You Can.” We would like to encourage all Ventura residents to take action by developing an emergency response plan. Water is an essential resource for survival and a necessary part of every emergency supply kit. In case of an emergency, we want you to be prepared for potential impacts that could affect the City’s ability to provide safe water.
Following a disaster, clean drinking water may not be available. Prepare yourself by building a supply of water that will meet your family’s needs during an emergency. Make sure to stock enough tap or bottled water to last 3 to 7 days. Anticipate each family member will need 1 to 2 gallons of water per day. Additionally, customers should be prepared to disinfect available water by boiling water or use regular unscented chlorine bleach products that are suitable for disinfection and sanitation as indicated on the label. To learn more on how to safely disinfect drinking water during an emergency please visit https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/emergency-disinfection-drinking-water
Remember, water disaster preparedness involves 4 easy steps: 1. store water, 2. build an emergency kit, 3. make a plan and 4. stay informed. Residents and businesses are encouraged to register online at VCalert.org to receive emergency updates and critical messages like evacuation notices. Be sure to visit www.ready.gov/september for more information on how to prepare for the unexpected.