With summer around the corner, the hot (and dry) conditions in Southern California can lead to several different hazards that we will all need to be prepared for. These include:
While these incidents are rare, that doesn't mean they can't happen. They can take us completely by surprise and the effects from these emergencies can have life-or-death consequences. We can't stop the emergency from happening, but what we can do is be as prepared as possible for them so that we know how we can keep ourselves and our loved ones safer during a crisis.
You can find more information on each of these hazards by clicking on the links in the list above, or by navigating through the dropdown menu at the top of the screen.
The California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is excited to share the Summer Edition of the Emergency Preparedness Bulletin. This bulletin provides information and preparation reminders for California’s summer weather, fire season, and water activities.
Preparing for the unexpected is the best defense against the challenges summer activities can bring. Knowing what to do before an emergency occurs allows a quick response. This bulletin is part of DDS’ ongoing effort to alert and educate individuals and direct service providers about specific risks to our community. Do not be caught unprepared. Take a moment to review the appropriate bulletins below (available in multiple languages!). DDS has developed bulletins for both consumers (self-advocates/families) and vendors.
Summer Edition - Summer Weather (English)
Boletín de preparación ante emergencias: clima de verano (Spanish)
Bulletin sa Paghahanda sa Emerhensya – Panahon ng Tag-init (Tagalog)
應急準備公告 - 夏季天氣 (Traditional Chinese)
Bңn Tin Sẵn Sàng ưng Phó TrưỜng Hềp Khản CҤp – ThỜi Tiết Mùa Hè (Vietnamese)
Summer Edition – Summer Weather (English)
Boletín de preparación ante emergencias: clima de verano (Spanish)
Bulletin sa Paghahanda sa Emerhensya – Panahon ng Tag-init (Tagalog)
應急準備公告 - 夏季天氣 (Traditional Chinese)
Bңn Tin Sẵn Sàng ưng Phó TrưỜng Hềp Khản CҤp – ThỜi Tiết Mùa Hè (Vietnamese)
Additionally, summer time also coincides with the Fourth of July, when firework usage increases. We've included some background and tips about firework safety so you can celebrate safely this year!
Fireworks related injuries remain high, turning many Fourth of July celebrations from fun and festive, to a trip to the emergency room. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging consumers to either leave fireworks to the professionals or take steps to celebrate safely when using consumer-grade fireworks.
According to new CPSC data, there were 11 reported fireworks-related deaths in 2022, mostly associated with mortar-style devices. Five of those deaths were associated with fireworks misuse, with victims ranging from 11 to 43 years of age.
The new report also showed there were an estimated 10,200 fireworks-related injuries in 2022. 73 percent of those injuries occurred during the one month span surrounding the July 4th holiday.
Most fireworks injuries and deaths are preventable. CPSC urges consumers to celebrate safely this holiday by following these safety tips:
Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit - hot enough to melt some metals.
Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy, in case of fire or other mishap.
Make sure fireworks are legal in your area, and only purchase and set off fireworks that are labeled for consumer (not professional) use.
Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
For more fireworks safety tips, visit Fireworks | CPSC.gov