Archived News Release from 2005

For Immediate Release

Redwood City Fire Department Offers Disaster Preparedness Information

Redwood City, CA - January 5, 2005 - As the world has unfortunately and tragically seen in the last ten days, a disaster can strike quickly, without warning, and with devastating consequences. As the world organizes aid in response to the massive tsunami devastation in Asia, the Redwood City Fire Department wants to remind our community that preparing one’s family and home for a possible disaster – earthquake, flood, or fire, for example – can make all the difference.

The fire department's web page offers information and tips on disaster preparedness . It’s important to remember that in the event of a disaster, homes, neighborhoods, or entire areas may be without basic services like water, gas, electricity, and telephones, or access to stores and other services for several hours or days. While public safety personnel will be on the scene after a disaster, they cannot reach everyone right away. Therefore, the best way to ensure family and home safety is to be prepared before disaster strikes.

On this webpage are links to crucial information such as a three-day survival kit guide and San Mateo County’s emergency preparedness guide, as well as to resources such as the American Red Cross, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the National Fire Protection Association. The site also contains information on the organization and responsibilities of Redwood City’s emergency services program.

In light of the disaster in Asia, Redwood City’s main web page also includes a link to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), where people wishing to donate or otherwise assist in the recovery effort can find a list of organizations which are active in the relief effort.

The Redwood City Fire Department has five fire stations housing five engines and one truck, and currently has over 70 staff members including firefighters, firefighter/paramedics, captains and battalion chiefs, fire prevention staff, training staff, and administrative staff.

Visit Redwood City 's website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about the City and its services, the community, recreation programs, education, City government, and local business.

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Contact:
Gerry Kohlmann
Redwood City Fire Chief
(650) 780-7400