SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom on Sep 14 marked Preparedness Month by highlighting California’s work to prepare for the full range of emergencies facing the state, and by urging Californians to take a few simple steps that can make a life-saving difference. The most consequential work California does in a disaster often happens before anyone sees the smoke, feels the ground shake, or hears an evacuation alert.

It happens when the state positions resources ahead of a winter storm. When a family receives an earthquake warning seconds before shaking begins. When a neighbor checks on an older resident during extreme heat. When communities reduce fire risk before the next red flag warning.

The state has expanded lifesaving warning systems, increased emergency response capacity, invested in prevention, and supported communities in preparing for the risks they face.

(Photo source: Gavin Newsom’s Newsroom)