Mayor Patino Proclaims National Preparedness Month For City Of Santa Maria

SANTA MARIA, Calif. (KEYT) - Mayor Alice Patino will be proclaiming National Preparedness Month for Santa Maria at tonight's City Council meeting.

City leaders are encouraging all residents, businesses and organizations to continually take preemptive planning steps to anticipate emergencies.

As wildfires burn north of San Luis Obispo County affecting air quality as far south as Santa Barbara County, El Niño is simultaneously signaling palpable weather changes as summer transitions to fall.

The theme for National Preparedness Month 2026 is "Americans Stand Ready".

The first week of the national month-long campaign is focused on self reliance and individual resilience.

The second week centers on the individual's duty to their loved ones.

Experts say it's good to start with learning what types of emergencies are common in your area and how they can potentially affect you.

Making plans with your family ahead of time such as where to meet during certain disasters can help ease anxieties and establish clear communication.

Leaders say it's also good to have emergency First Aid kits and go-bags pre-packed.

Community engagement is also recommended, such as participating in CPR and First Aid classes.

As always, city and county leaders encourage residents to sign up for emergency alerts at ReadySLO.org or ReadySBC.org.

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