Emergencies don’t just affect individuals, they impact entire neighborhoods, schools, workplaces and communities. When disaster strikes, being prepared as a group can make the difference between chaos and resilience.
Why community preparedness matters
- Neighbors are often first responders. In large-scale emergencies, professional responders may be delayed. Neighbors checking on each other can save lives.
- Shared resources go further. A community with backup power, medical supplies or evacuation transport plans can help everyone weather the storm.
- Trusted messengers matter. People are more likely to act on critical information if it comes from someone they know, such as a local faith leader, school official or community organizer.
The resiliency of our residents and the heroic efforts of our communities inspire us all. Preparedness is something we build together. This spirit is at the heart of community readiness: Neighbors supporting neighbors.
Three ways to strengthen community preparedness
- Start a conversation – Talk with your neighbors about evacuation routes, medical needs, and who might need extra help in a disaster.
- Join or start a CERT Program – The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) trains residents in first aid, light search and rescue, and emergency communications. Learn more at oes.sbcounty.gov/cert.
- Stay connected – Follow San Bernardino County Office of Emergency Services (OES) on social media and sign up for TENS alerts so your whole community receives timely updates.
National Preparedness Month is the perfect time to take small steps with a big impact. Whether it’s organizing a block meeting, volunteering with CERT, or sharing emergency information with your community, your actions can help keep San Bernardino County safe and resilient.
Visit prepare.sbcounty.gov to learn more about emergency preparedness and how you can get involved.
Additional County Update News – September 25, 2025
- County continues response and recovery efforts after heavy rains and mudslides
- County urges residents to be prepared for potential rain this weekend
- Board actions, Sept. 23
- County officials warn taxpayers of property tax payment scam
- Southern California Edison Wildfire Safety Meeting
- Spreen Subaru of San Bernardino partners with County Animal Care and ARFF this October
- County Library offers senior programs at Mentone Senior Center and Library
- New pickleball courts open at MacKay Park in Lake Arrowhead
- San Bernardino County destinations: Joshua Tree National Park
- Call for submissions: Share your favorite San Bernardino County destinations
- San Bernardino County history: Mentone
- Things to do in San Bernardino County
- Pet of the Week