September: National Preparation Month
As September arrives, it signals the close of the monsoon season and prompts us to reflect on National Preparation Month. It’s a good reminder to stay alert, plan ahead, and safeguard the essentials in case of emergencies.
In Maricopa County, emergency management teams work year-round in collaboration with various agencies to ensure public safety in unincorporated regions and municipalities. Different departments, including those focusing on flood management and public health, formulate and execute strategies to monitor potential emergencies, minimize risks, and disseminate emergency alerts to residents.
For instance, in June 2024, when fires spread over more than 2,500 acres in Scottsdale, the Maricopa County Emergency Management Office provided timely fire updates, while the Sheriff’s Office evacuated residents at risk. These actions aim to enhance community safety.
Storms and Floods
Maricopa County often faces heavy rainfall, intense dust storms, and flash floods during the monsoon season. Initiatives like “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” and “Run Aside and Stay Alive” encourage residents to take precautions, avoiding flooded areas and seeking shelter during dust storms.
Flood Control Districts keep a close watch on incoming storms to prevent injuries and property damage. Some available resources include:
- A daily weather forecast for storm updates.
- Access to a flood plain viewer mapper.
- A real-time rainfall map for monitoring rainfall across the region.
- The district’s “Dam Cam,” which showcases striking images of dust storms and floods.
Extreme Heat
With scorching temperatures scaling into the triple digits, Maricopa County poses significant risks, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly and homeless individuals. To combat heat-related fatalities, the Maricopa County Public Health Department collaborates with the Heat Relief Network, 211 Arizona, local government entities, and community organizations to spread awareness about heat precautions and connect residents with critical resources.
The county is determined to reduce heat-related deaths. They maintain a fever-related death dashboard to verify reported cases, track suspected cases, identify trends, and inform outreach efforts.
Wildfires
The hot and arid climate in the area creates hazardous conditions, often sparked by lightning, fireworks, cigarettes, or unattended campfires. To prepare for such incidents, the Maricopa County Emergency Management Department works alongside fire districts and local authorities to map emergency zones, helping residents determine if they’re in areas that may require evacuation.
In response to emergencies, they follow the “Ready, Set, Go!” protocol:
- Preparation: Formulate an emergency plan and pack essentials like water, non-perishable food, a battery-operated radio, vital documents, and medications.
- Set: Keep your emergency “Go Bag” near the door, ready to grab when an alert comes through.
- Go: Evacuate promptly with your family and pets to avoid dangerous conditions.
While the county department monitors risks and sends alerts, officials emphasize that the first line of defense begins at home. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and prepare their go-bags before any disaster strikes.
