Disaster preparedness

Hey Berkeley, get ready now for the next emergency

Learn how to stop bleeding and how to use fire extinguishers this Saturday. The first 300 families get a free emergency kit.

Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson. Courtesy

Supervisor Keith Carson has invited local residents from Berkeley and his district to the fourth annual Alameda County Emergency Preparedness Day this coming Saturday at 10 a.m.

There will be workshops on topics such as how to stop bleeding and how to use fire extinguishers. The first 300 families will get a free emergency kit.

It's the first time the event has been held since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has taught us all that we need to be prepared to act and do all we can to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our community when the unexpected happens," organizers wrote. "Although we may not know when the next crisis will occur — whether it be earthquake, wildfire, or flood — we know there are things we can do right now to make sure we remain safe and healthy."

The event takes place Saturday, Oct. 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chabot Elementary School at 6686 Chabot Road, in Oakland.

Supervisor Carson will kick off the day with opening remarks, and Joe Grupalo of evacuation-planning website ZoneHaven will present a keynote speech.

Participants will also be able to visit a resource fair where agencies and community organizations focused on emergency preparedness will be available throughout the day.

There will also be workshops on community planning and how to use everyday items for emergency preparedness.