Nov 27, 2024
In this episode of All Things Wildfire, the host
welcomes Chin Thammasaengsri, a long-time member of the Community
Emergency Response Team (CERT) in Los Angeles. Together, they
discuss the critical role CERT plays in disaster preparedness and
response, focusing on wildfires, earthquakes, and other
emergencies.
Chin shares insights into CERT’s history, its three-fold mission
of self-care, family preparedness, and community support, and
practical strategies to engage with neighbors and build disaster
resilience. He highlights personal stories and actionable advice,
emphasizing the importance of preparation, teamwork, and
communication during emergencies.
Key Takeaways:
- CERT Overview:
- Established in 1985 by the Los Angeles Fire Department.
- Aims to train civilian volunteers to support themselves, their
families, and their communities during disasters.
- Offers practical skills in first aid, evacuation, fire
suppression, search and rescue, and communication.
- Three Pillars of CERT Training:
- Self-care: Being prepared with personal
emergency supplies and knowledge.
- Family preparedness: Ensuring immediate
family members are safe and supported.
- Community connection: Coordinating
efforts with neighbors for collective disaster response.
- Lessons from Wildfire and Disaster Response:
- The emotional toll of disasters, such as survival guilt,
underscores the value of community solidarity.
- Evacuation planning and multiple escape routes are critical in
wildfire-prone areas.
- Maintaining open communication channels, such as two-way
radios, ensures preparedness when traditional methods fail.
- First Aid and Common Injuries:
- Glass-related injuries, broken bones, and lacerations are
common after earthquakes or wildfires.
- Basic disaster medical training and a well-stocked first-aid
kit are essential.
- Community Engagement:
- Start small by connecting with a few committed neighbors to
build awareness.
- Use tools like flyers, educational talks, and apps like Watch
Duty for wildfire alerts to foster preparedness.
- Encourage a culture of mutual support and proactive
planning.
- Practical Tools:
- Two-way radios (FRS/GMRS) for reliable neighborhood
communication.
- Emergency supplies such as N95 masks, first-aid kits, and
evacuation plans.
Show Notes:
- Guest: Chin Thammasaengsri, Community
Emergency Response Team member.
- Contact Chin: Email
at cert68chin@gmail.com.
- Resources Mentioned:
- Watch Duty app for wildfire alerts.
- CERT training programs (local fire departments or emergency
management offices).
- American Red Cross and American Heart Association for CPR and
first-aid certifications.
- FRS/GMRS radios available at Walmart or Best Buy.
Actionable Steps for
Listeners:
- Take CERT Training: Find a local CERT
program to learn essential disaster response skills.
- Prepare Emergency Kits: Stock your home
with first-aid supplies, N95 masks, radios, and evacuation
essentials.
- Engage Your Community: Start
conversations about disaster planning with neighbors and join or
form local preparedness groups.
- Download Preparedness Apps: Stay informed
with apps like Watch Duty for real-time wildfire alerts.
Disaster preparedness starts with
individual action but thrives through community collaboration. Take
the time to know your neighbors, plan together, and be ready to
support one another when emergencies arise.
Be sure to subscribe and follow All Things
Wildfire for more expert insights on protecting your
property and community.
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Whether you're passionate about environmental sustainability,
intrigued by technological advancements, or simply eager to learn
about the latest developments in wildfire prevention, this episode
is a must-listen.