TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – For the past 10 years, the United States has recorded more natural disasters than ever, costing billions of dollars, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
While 60 percent of Americans say being prepared for natural and man-made disasters is very important, only 17 percent say they are prepared, according to Ready.gov.
“A disaster situation can hit any geographic area at any time,” said Mark Wilson, 60th Civil Engineer Squadron installation emergency manager at Travis Air Force Base. “Earthquakes, industrial accidents, wildfires, terrorism and severe weather, all have the potential to affect Travis.”
From now to May is the wet season in Northern California, which means people should be prepared not only for floods, but also mudslides and falling trees as a result of major storms.
“Flash flooding does occur here,” said Wilson. “Dangers also include severe lightening, high winds, hail and tornadoes.”
Several locations in Vacaville, California, have the potential for flooding, especially near Alamo and Ulatis Creeks. Flood areas in Fairfield, California, include isolated areas near Green Valley Creek, Dan Wilson Creek, Suisun Creek, Ledgewood Creek and Union Creek.
Depending on the severity of the storm, flood waters may rise above the curb and enter onto private properties, according to the Fairfield and Vacaville Departments of Public Works.
Public Works recommends that people who live near flood areas consider buying flood insurance.
April marks the beginning of wildfire season, which extends into November, said Wilson.
“Last year, major fires were at the top of the disaster list,” he said. “And the No. 1 cause of fires was careless smoking.”
Cal Fire reported that 2018 was one of the deadliest in the state’s history with wildfires destroying more than 1.6 billion acres. Even Travis personnel were affected.
On Aug. 10, 2018, a fire at Nelson and Cherry Glen roads along Interstate 80 in Vacaville burned more than 2,000 acres and forced the temporary evacuation of base personnel living in parts of Fairfield and Vacaville.
“If you live in this region, always be prepared to evacuate in case of wildfires,” said Wilson.
Another big concern is earthquakes, said Wilson.
“Travis is located on an earthquake fault which, until 1985, was the source of minor rumblings measuring up to magnitude .3,” he said. “Between now and 2043, there is a 62 percent chance that a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake will occur along one of the Bay Area's seven main fault lines.”
In 1989, more than 1,000 people from Travis who were attending the World Series in the Bay Area were stranded for three days and had to live in their vehicles following a M6.9 Loma Prieta earthquake that crumbled buildings, streets and bridges.
“There were hotel rooms available but they didn’t have cash,” said Wilson. “Always keep cash in the home and in the car.”
No matter the type of disaster situation, there are some basic survival steps people should take to be ready, said Wilson.
- Maintain a disaster kit with a three-day supply of food, water (1 gallon per person per day), medications, first aid kit and any other necessities, such as cell phone car chargers, a battery-operated radio, flashlights and extra batteries. Pet owners also should make sure their animals have a three-day supply of food and water.
- In case of wildfire, prepare an evacuation bag that includes clothing and other necessities as well as important documents. Also, identify a primary and secondary location to meet in case family members get separated and make sure friends and other family members know your plans.
- If outside during an earthquake, stay away from buildings, walls, trees and power lines. If inside, get under a sturdy desk or table, even if it moves. Drivers should pull over to the side of the road and avoid bridges and overpasses. Remain inside the vehicle.
- Secure kitchen cabinet doors to prevent glass, canned goods, bleach and other household chemicals from falling out. Secure large cabinets and shelves to the wall, especially in sleeping areas. Know how to shut off the natural gas meter and keep a wrench for this purpose in a sealed bag near the valve.
“If you’re on the coast and feel an earthquake or hear sirens, head inland,” said Wilson. “The entire coast and Bay Area are vulnerable to tsunami waves.”
Wilson also suggests signing up for public safety emails or text message by texting your ZIP code to: 888777.
“Also, tune into KCBS 106.9 FM, KFBK 1530 AM or KUIC 95.3 FM for emergency messages,” he said.
For more disaster preparedness ideas, visit www.BeReady.af.mil; www.Prepare.org; www.Earthquake.usgs.gov; www. Calfire.gov; or www.Redcross.org. For information on flood insurance, visit: www.floodsmart.gov.