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6 | OHCC LIVING | MAY 2026 | By Tom Porter, SERT Club President Are you prepared for the "What If?" From a minor mishap like spilling water on the oor to major occurrences such as your home catching re, your vehicle being totaled in an accident or a serious health crisis, have you thought about what steps you can take NOW to minimize the disruption that any of these situations may cause? A water spill – it happens, you are not concerned, you have experienced this before. You all know having a paper towel or towel handy to clean it up is important so you do not slip and fall. House Fire – Trac Accident – Health Crisis, all these require you to think through how to address the multiple things that need to be done to minimize their eect on you. ese are occurrences that you may not have confronted before, so you need to take the time now to plan and prepare. Luckily, there are reliable websites at your ngertips to help you be ready. e San Diego County Emergency Management System oers a website and a free app, SD EMERGENCY that is downloadable for Apple and Android devices, providing essential information and notications during emergencies. Once the website is downloaded, it gives users the opportunity to choose the types of emergency situations about which they wish to be notied. is includes evacuation status, designated evacuation areas and provides maps showing locations and what you need to do. e app aids you step-by-step in developing a plan, building an emergency kit, helping you stay informed during an emergency, and explains how you can utilize other emergency services within San Diego. By being prepared and staying informed, your safety is greatly improved! Another recommended app is the American Red Cross First Aid app, oering guidance on addressing rst aid issues in emergencies. In conclusion, staying informed and prepared is essential for that "What If " moment. Downloading and utilizing apps like those provided by San Diego County Emergency Management and the American Red Cross can signicantly aid in emergency preparedness and response eorts. Both apps are free and crucial for emergency preparedness. e OHCC SERT (Safety Emergency Response Team) Club welcomes new members and oers opportunities for involvement, including in-home safety surveys and enrollment in American Red Cross Adult First Aid/CPR/AED classes. Club membership costs $15 per year per person. For more information, visit www.ohccsert.com. WHAT IF?