Your smartphone can be a lifesaver in an emergency. Here are some simple but crucial steps to enhance your preparedness:
- Receive emergency alerts. Sign up for CodeRED (Village) and AlertOC (Orange County) to get critical updates on wildfires and other emergencies. Enable Government Alerts in your phone’s settings (under Notifications on iPhone; Wireless Emergency Alerts [WEA] on Android).
- Set an ICE contact. Add an “in case of emergency” (ICE) contact to your phone—someone local who knows your health history and can respond quickly.
- Save essential contacts. Store key contacts, including family, doctors, pharmacy, police, fire and local hospitals.
- Keep your smartphone charged. Always charge your phone and consider a backup power pack for emergencies.
Your Smartphone Can Protect Important Documents
Wildfires can destroy irreplaceable records and photos, but your smartphone can safeguard them. Scan and store copies of:
- Driver’s license, passport and Social Security card
- Medication list and health insurance cards
- Insurance policies and other essential documents
- Family and pet photos for identification
Need help? Watch YouTube tutorials or visit the Village computer clubs (Mac Club for iPhones, PC Club for Androids) on the third floor of the Community Center (24351 El Toro Road). Volunteers and scanning equipment are available to assist you.
This simple step ensures your most important information stays secure—no tech expertise required!
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