Dear Citizens,
In my capacity as Director of Emergency Services for the County of Kern, I am pleased to call your attention to the 2008 Disaster Planning Guide. Through the hard work of a collaborative of public and private agencies, we have prepared a vital collection of information that could save the lives of you and your loved ones should a disaster take place in Kern County.
Please review this guide carefully with the members of your household. Experience has shown us that the people who survive a disaster are the ones who have prepared for it in advance. I strongly encourage everyone in our community to take personal responsibility for their lives and property by following the guidelines suggested in this publication. Whether the disaster is an act of nature or caused by human beings, it is imperative that each of us is ready with a plan in place.
The Kern County Fire Department is internationally recognized as a leader in disaster preparedness and mitigation. The dedication, skill and readiness of our department members can only be effective in a disaster if our citizens are able to meet us halfway by being personally prepared for an emergency. We are counting on you to do your part in becoming ready to meet a disaster head on, and with our help, to survive its effects and recover to enjoy a beneficial and healthy future.
On behalf of my staff and the numerous people who made this Disaster Guide possible, I thank you for your ongoing support of safety and preparedness for all of Kern County. Remember: we all need to have an emergency plan, practice it, and set aside enough supplies to see us safely through the emergency, whatever it may be.
Sincerely,
Dennis L. Thompson
Fire Chief & Director of Emergency Services