Summer Safety Starts with Small Steps

Summer in Alta California Regional Center’s (ACRC) service area brings plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure, but it can also bring extreme heat, wildfire risk, poor air quality, power outages, and other seasonal hazards. The California Department of Developmental Services’ (DDS) Emergency Preparedness Bulletin reminds us that staying safe doesn’t have to be complicated—sometimes taking one simple step, like signing up for local emergency alerts or knowing where your nearest cooling center is located, can make a big difference.

This month’s bulletin highlights practical ways to stay safe during the summer, including protecting children, older adults, pets, and people with disabilities from dangerous heat, checking air quality before spending time outdoors, and knowing what to do during thunderstorms and lightning events. It also encourages clients and families to stay informed through trusted resources for emergency alerts, wildfire updates, and cooling center locations.

At ACRC, we encourage individuals, families, and providers to take a few moments this summer to review emergency plans, stay connected to local alerts, and look out for one another. Preparedness doesn’t have to happen all at once—every small step helps build a safer and more resilient community.