Wildfire Preparedness Week In Aliso Viejo

ALISO VIEJO, CA —In 2018, the Aliso Fire raged in the wildland around Aliso Viejo, Aliso and Woods Canyon. That wildland will likely burn again, and for residents, staying prepared should be a way of life, according to Orange County Fire Chief Jeff Adams.

When an evacuation is ordered in Aliso Viejo, Orange County Sheriff's Department and Orange County Fire Authority will expect you to be "ready, set and go," according to Adams.

Registering for emergency alerts in your area, such as Alert OC, are imperative to residents.

Ready: Give your home the best chance to survive a wildfire by creating defensible space.

Set: Clothing, food and water and medications from 5 to 7 days.

Go: Leave early. Know your exit route, two ways out of your neighborhood, and set up a predetermined meeting location for your family.

"Alert OC is a mass notification system designed to keep Orange County residents and businesses informed of emergencies and certain community events," spokesperson Sara Limones, City of Aliso Viejo's Emergency Manager, said. "You must register in order to receive notifications through phone or email."

Remembering to include your pets in your evacuation plans is also imperative, Gail DeYoung, of the Mission Viejo Animal Services manager said.

"When evacuation orders are given, make sure you have a buddy plan with neighbors," she said. "If you evacuate, take your pets with you."

Mission Viejo Animal Services Center will be available to assist during emergency evacuations.

Stay prepared, know where to go, and be safe out there, Aliso Viejo.