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6 | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | AUGUST 2025 | YOU NEED TO KNOW! By Janis Rice, EPAP PIO Sun Lakes EPAP is not a new organization. In fact, it has been around for many years. Sun Lakes will celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2027. When Sun Lakes was established, so were the Districts. Then came District Delegates, who played a key role in organizing and governing our community and still do. EPAP (Emergency Preparedness Action Plan) was officially formed in 1991 by Bob Ewert, a retired Los Angeles City Fire Chief, who also formed the Safety and Security Advisory Committee. When Bob and the Safety and Security Advisory Committee observed Sun Lakes' infrastructure, they realized that the residents of Sun Lakes would probably be unable to evacuate in the event of a major disaster. Bob and the committee felt it was imperative to develop a survival plan for our community. EPAP was established. In addition to the District Delegates and Alternates, they developed the EOC (Emergency Operations Center) and added EPAP Coordinator, Zone Captains, FAST (First Aid Source Team, new name for MRTs), and other EPAP Volunteers to the Plan. They also established Companion Districts and District Command Post. The District Command Post is an essential part of the Emergency Plan, but the EPAP Executive Team is often asked "what/where is my Command Post." The District Command Posts are organized and set up in each District. They are usually located at the home of the EPAP Coordinator, but sometimes they are set up at a central location such as the community condo pool. You should know this location wherever it is located. Why is the Command Post so important? These locations will be the meeting/staging area for your District's EPAP Coordinator, FAST, and Zone Captains in the event of an emergency (if shelter- in-place is not ordered ). From here, they will check in with the EOC and their Companion District, coordinate the residential check list, provide supplies from the emergency box (first aid supplies, fire extinguishers, and other essential equipment for your District), and do their best to assist their neighbors. EPAP Volunteers will check in, receive directions, communicate with the EOC or Companion District, and begin their survey of the neighborhoods. In most cases, residents will not "need" to go to their Command Post, but in the event that your Zone Captain or other EPAP Volunteer cannot reach you, you cannot stay in your home, you need assistance, and/or your District needs extra help, you should safely make your way to your District Command Post. This is why knowing the location of your District Command Post is so important. All questions regarding your District Command Post or EPAP Coordinator should be directed to your District Delegate. If you do not receive the information you seek, please contact the EPAP Executive Team at (951) 524-3126 or email Janis Rice EPAP PIO at j.e.rice1954@gmail.com . BEING PREPARED WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE.

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