How well you and your family survive an earthquake can depend on how well you prepare beforehand. Develop an earthquake plan for your household and then talk to your neighbors about developing a neighborhood plan. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Build a disaster preparedness kit
- Place large or heavy objects on the lower shelves. Fasten shelves, mirrors, and large picture frames to walls. Brace taller top-heavy objects.
- Store bottled foods, glass, china and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets that fasten shut
- Know the safe spots in each room: under sturdy tables or desks
- Know the danger spots - near windows, mirrors, hanging objects, etc.
- Install flex fittings on all gas and water connections
- Practice earthquake drills with family members
- Maintain an updated out-of-state contact card
If you are interested in learning more about how to help yourself and others after a disaster, please check the Community Emergency Response Team(CERT) page or contact our Emergency Services Coordinator, Larry Meyerhofer, at (949) 234-2800 or lmeyerhofer@danapoint.org.
View a map of recent earthquakes, courtesy of the United States Geological Survey.
Publications
Dana Point, situated on the scenic Southern California coastline, faces inherent flood risks due to its unique geography and close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Events such as high tides, storm surges and heavy rainfalls can exacerbate this vulnerability. In addition, the threat of rising sea levels, a consequence of global climate change, magnifies the potential for flooding. Therefore, in Dana Point, the importance of flood preparedness cannot be overstated. It is important for residents to familiarize themselves with evacuation routes, maintain an emergency kit with essential supplies and stay updated on weather forecasts and city advisories. Proactive preparedness not only protects individual property and lives but also ensures the resilience and safety of the entire community.
To determine if you are located in a flood zone and learn more about flood insurance and the steps you can take to reduce flood damage, visit FEMA's Flood Map Service Center at FEMA Flood Map Service Center | Welcome!
About San Onofre Nuclear Generation Station (SONGS)
Southern California Edison formally notified the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) on June 12, 2013 that it had permanently ceased operation of Units 2 and 3 on June 7, 2013. The notification, called a Certification of Permanent Cessation of Power Operations, set the stage for SCE to begin preparations for decommissioning and dismantling the plant.
The San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) is now in the process of decommissioning. Dismantlement began the first quarter 2020 and will involve the deconstruction of above-grade structures associated with Units 2 and 3 in compliance with NRC requirements, as well as the partial removal of offshore undersea conduits (large pipes) and offshore buoys and anchors.
Interjurisdictional Planning Committee
The Interjurisdictional Planning Committee was formed in 1982 to address the emergency planning requirements within the Emergency Planning Zone for the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS).
The Emergency Planning Zone is the area within a 10-mile radius from San Onofre.
The IPC is composed of representatives from these bodies:
- City of San Clemente
- City of Dana Point
- City of San Juan Capistrano
- Orange County
- San Diego County
- Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton
- California State Parks
- Southern California Edison
The mission of this group is to integrate emergency plans, coordinate decision-making for SONGS-related activities and educate the public. The IPC is a strong partnership that is recognized at the local, state and federal levels. The IPC continues to meet regularly throughout the decommissioning of San Onofre.
Community Engagement in Decommissioning Public Meetings
The Community Engagement Panel holds quarterly meetings in communities near SONGS. Watch video replays of past meetings of the CEP, learn about upcoming events, and access meeting materials and information here.
Community Engagement Panel Meeting Key Updates, Takeaways & Shareables - May 28, 2020(PDF, 324KB)
For more information about SONGS, visit their community website at visit www.songscommunity.com/ or email your questions to nuccomm@songs.sce.com.
Power Outage
The City of Dana Point is NWS/NOAA certified Tsunami Ready
All tsunamis are potentially dangerous, even though they may not damage every coastline they strike. A tsunami can strike anywhere along most of the U.S. coastlines. Earthquake-induced movement of the ocean floor most often generates tsunamis. If a major earthquake or landslide occurs close to shore, the first wave in a series could reach the beach in a few minutes, even before a warning is issued. Areas are at greater risk if they are less than 25 feet above sea level and within a mile of the shoreline. Drowning is the most common cause of death associated with a tsunami. Tsunami waves and the receding water are very destructive to structures in the run-up zone. Other hazards include flooding, contamination of drinking water, and fires from gas lines or ruptured tanks.
What should I do to prepare for or in the event of a Tsunami?
- Head for higher ground
- Stay away from floodwater. You can protect yourself best by being prepared and having time to act.
- You can protect your home best by taking measures to reduce potential flood damage (such as using sandbags during heavy rainfall)
- Local radio or television stations or a NOAA weather radio are the best sources of information in a flood/tsunami situation for official weather and weather-related bulletins.
Tsunami Preparedness Video
This video was produced by the United States Geological Survey and focuses on the tsunami hazard to southern California.
Maritime Tsunami Preparedness Video
Watch this video to learn about how to be prepared for tsunamis if you are at port or operate a seafaring vessel.
The First "Sue Nami"
Links
Dana Point Tsunami Evacuation Routes
Publications
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS WILDFIRE EVACUATION ZONES
The City of Dana Point’s Wildfire Evacuation Zone Program designates geographic zones by neighborhood for the purposes of emergency management and orderly evacuation of Dana Point. Wildfire evacuation zones are coded as depicted in the map below. In the event of an emergency, a particular zone(s) may be placed under an evacuation warning or under an evacuation order. Wildfire evacuation zones have been created to keep traffic moving efficiently and allow for an orderly exit of an area. During evacuation warnings and orders, you should leave immediately and seek shelter outside all wildfire evacuation zones.
Find your residence and/or business on the Wildfire Evacuation Zone map below and open the corresponding Zone Map. Within your Zone Map document, you will find major routes out of your neighborhood in case of an evacuation along with emergency notification sign-up instructions, evacuation safety tips, and an evacuation checklist.
Please contact the City of Dana Point Emergency Services Office at 949-248-3502 for any non-emergency inquires.
Zone Map Resources & Evacuation Details
Zone 3(PDF, 245KB)
Zone 4(PDF, 256KB)
Zone 8(PDF, 243KB)
Zone 5(PDF, 246KB)
Zone 6(PDF, 245KB)
Zone 7(PDF, 239KB)
Zone 12(PDF, 250KB)
Zone 13(PDF, 230KB)
Zone 14(PDF, 261KB)
Zone 15(PDF, 252KB)
Some of the Sheriff's Department's patrol units are now equipped with a siren feature to alert residents to evacuation orders during emergencies, such as fire or flood. The system also is equipped with an external PA system that can play recorded messages to notify residents about the need to evacuate.
The Orange County Sheriff's priority during any emergency is your safety and this tool will help bolster response efforts during mass evacuations. Remember: When you hear hi-lo, it's time to go!
Other Emergency Resources
Personal Emergency Plan
Having a personal emergency plan in place is a cornerstone of preparedness and safety for both individuals and families. Such a plan ensures that, in the face of sudden crises or disasters, individuals know precisely what steps to take, where to go and how to communicate with each other. For families, clear pre-established guidelines can be the crucial difference between confusion and coordinated action. An emergency plan addresses specific needs, from medical considerations to pet care, and provides a roadmap to navigate chaotic situations. Ultimately, by investing time in creating and rehearsing an emergency plan, individuals and families are reinforcing their commitment to safeguarding their well-being and fortifying their resilience against unpredictable challenges.
For detailed information on how to develop an emergency plan please visit Make A Plan | Ready.gov
Disaster Supply Kit
Having a disaster supply kit is an essential aspect of personal and family preparedness. When emergencies strike, they often bring with them sudden interruptions to basic utilities and services. By being prepared ahead of time with a well-stocked kit, individuals can ensure they have access to vital supplies like water, food, medication and first-aid essentials during these critical times. For families, particularly those with children or elderly members, having such provisions can make a significant difference in safety and comfort levels. A disaster supply kit not only provides the tangible means to weather a crisis but also fosters a sense of security and preparedness, empowering families to face challenging situations with confidence and resilience.
For detailed information on the types of items to have on hand, visit Build A Kit | Ready.gov
