EXEMPLARY PRACTICES IN EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Earthquake Fair
Program Description: The Earthquake Fair was developed out of a need to better prepare Fort Bragg residents for family survival in an earthquake and to help citizens improve structures' seismic safety. The idea of the fair grew out of a meeting convened by the city with a citizens group to discuss ideas and support for disaster preparedness following a power outage from a severe storm. The concept of a hands-on community event combining demonstrations and commercial exhibits seemed to be most accessible and informative for city residents -- events such as the Redwood Empire Fair, Mendocino County Fair, merchant expositions, handicraft fairs, car shows, and garage sales were always popular.
The Earthquake Fair was sponsored and coordinated by the city of Fort Bragg. Volunteers included local educators, merchants, and emergency service workers. Some of the exhibits and demonstrations included information on local response preparedness programs; videos on topics such as preventing nonstructural damage; first aid; how to conduct CPR; radio enthusiasts' roles in disaster response through the REACT program; the hazards of downed power lines; how to use emergency generators safely; how to develop a family disaster supply kit; family and home preparedness; how to retrofit mobile and modular homes for seismic safety; and what students should do during an earthquake if they are at school.
Evaluation Information: Results of a random survey of attendees indicated they benefited from the fair. Local businesses developed special promotions to market family earthquake preparedness supplies. Residents are developing family preparedness supply kits. The school district has appointed an emergency preparedness coordinator to develop school plans and resources. A new Red Cross chapter is forming. The Building Department reports an increased number of homeowners doing seismic retrofit projects.
Annual Budget: $2,000.
Sources of Funding: City and participants.
Program Type: Dissemination of earthquake preparedness materials.
Target Population: Fort Bragg area residents.
Setting: Downtown commercial district.
Project Startup Date: 1993.
Contact:
Gary D. Milliman
City Manager
City of Fort Bragg
416 North Franklin Street
Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Tel: 707-961-2823
Fax: 707-961-2802
Last Modified: Thursday, 30-Mar-2006 09:51:05 EST