Know the Drill
The Palos Verdes Estates Police Department with help from community volunteers come together to share information about planning, preparing and recovering from a variety of natural disasters.
Written by Kristin Borden
If you live in PVE, you received a mailer or most likely have seen the banner for the “Know the Drill” campaign. If you’re like me, the postcard goes in the to-do-list pile and many times, gets forgotten about. After experiencing a worldwide pandemic in 2020, I think we can agree that being prepared for a disaster is more important than ever. I sat down with Marcelle Herrera, Community RelationsDirector at the PVEPD, and asked her some questions about this new program and here is what she told us.
“Resident safety is, of course, the City’s #1 priority. Between 2007-2009 the City worked with a number of residents to develop the Disaster District Program (DDP)which are resident volunteers who support city emergency response efforts. These incredible volunteers have been trained in Community Emergency Response Training (CERT)and many are amateur radio operators (HAM Operators). From that effort came our Resident Preparednessbrochure ‘Get Ready, Get Certified’ which was a self-certification in personal preparedness. A grant from CalFire made an update to this program possible.
Know the Drill was started to bring the community together and teach everyone simple steps that could make a huge difference during a disaster and possibly save a life. Our hope is to reach every resident. We look forward to connecting with our most at risk population of seniors who may not already be connected to the cities’ emergency notification system, Alert SouthBay. We all benefit from having a plan, supporting one another and being a prepared community. We as a city will also benefit because if our residents are prepared and able to handle emergencies, our first responders can address the threat to life, property and the environment.”
“The Time to plan for a disaster in not when it’s happening”
-Tony Best
PVEPD Chief
7-WEEK SAFETY CHALLENGE
The PVEPD encourages local families to take the 7 week “Know The Drill Challenge” because, as they say “emergency preparedness starts at home.” The challenge can be found on social media or the weekly community updates that offer preparedness scenarios and challenges. This thoughtful program makes it fun for the whole family and encourages families to do it together because “you’re one challenge closer to safety.” Marcelle says that she hopes people will share their experiences, questions and successes each week.
In addition to the challenge, Marcelle will also be hosting a series of PVE Preparedness Zoom Meetings, often with guest speakers, and a chance for Q&A on all things preparedness. The first event is scheduled for Monday, April 5 at 6pm (Please email Marcelle for more info and also for zoom link: mherrera@pvestates.org)
“Emergency preparedness starts at home, but you’re not alone. We are here to help. Let the challenges begin!”
-Marcelle Herrera
Community Relations Officer PVEPD
At PVE PD and as the Community Relations Officer and Emergency Services Coordinator we welcome your preparedness feedback, questions, and success stories. Good luck and enjoy the challenge. Stay well and be safe.
Great information. Easy to understand. Thanks so much!