Get ready for disaster at trio of workshops

PALMDALE — Residents looking to start or brush up their disaster preparations have a trio of free presentations and workshops to help them along their way in the coming weeks.

The city of Palmdale’s Neighborhood Services Department will host two presentations on the basics of disaster readiness, providing information and resources on easy and cost-effective means of preparing for a natural disaster emergency.

The first presentation is at 7 p.m. Jan. 22 in the City Council Chamber, 38300 Sierra Highway, Suite B.

The second is at 9 a.m. Jan. 29 at Legacy Commons for Active Seniors, 930 East Ave. Q.

“Being properly prepared for an emergency is a must

for all residents,” Public Safety Specialist Abner Diaz said. “Whether you are sheltering in place or evacuating, now is the time to prepare.

“We’ve recently had earthquakes, fires, and floods all close to home,” Diaz said. “It’s not a matter of if but when a disaster will strike. Preparation is key.”

For details, contact the crime prevention office at 661-267-5170.

The Palmdale Water District will present “Let’s Talk H2O! with PWD,” a free workshop that will provide information and supplies to get your emergency kit started.

The program runs from 6 to 7 p.m. Feb. 19 at the water agency’s administrative offices, 2029 East Ave. Q.

Led by Assistant General Manager Adam Ly, who heads PWD’s Emergency Response Team, the casual program will cover how to prepare for water emergencies resulting from natural and other disasters.

“Living in Southern California, we are all aware that natural disasters are inevitable,” Ly said. “It’s only a matter of time, so we want to help our community be ready. The information they receive and the basic supplies they get to start a kit could be lifesavers.”

Participants will learn about building their own emergency kits to include such items as waterproof matches, light sticks, whistles, emergency blankets, emergency drinking water and water disinfectant tablets.

Free emergency kit supplies will be available for the first 50 participants to register for the program and are limited to one kit per adult.

Participants will also have the chance to win a basic bucket emergency kit for two and other prizes, such as a multifunction radio, pet kit for a dog, filtered water bottle and an LED headlamp.

Space is limited and registration is required. Visit www.palmdalewater.org to sign up.

For details, contact Public Affairs Specialist Laura Gallegos at 661-441-5944.