We in Whatcom County are blessed to live in one of the most beautiful parts of the country and enjoy a strong sense of community. As we watch disasters and critical incidents unfold across our nation, it is difficult to remember that we too are vulnerable to a variety of natural and man-made disasters.

Storms and floods occur with regularity and we are prone to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and wildfires. Industrial and hydroelectric plants as well as highway, rail, marine and pipeline transportations systems are subject to both accidents and deliberate attacks that can endanger our safety. Literally millions of people and goods cross our international border each year, raising concerns about terrorism and the potential spread of pandemic diseases.

As we have witnessed in recent years, disasters can occur suddenly and radically change our lives. Consequences may include utility outages and the disruption of other essential services. Banks, schools, grocery stores, and pharmacies may curtail services for extended periods of time and health care providers may need to restrict service levels. Roads may become impassable and responses of all natures delayed. Disasters also have the potential to harm our environment and subject us to health hazards.

First responders and essential service providers plan, train and prepare in advance to protect life and safety during these critical times. The Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management partners with municipalities, fire districts, and volunteer organizations as well as with state and regional resources to plan and direct resources where they are most needed. The county executive and the mayors of local cities have critical roles in issuing disaster declarations and mustering resources. Preparedness is the key to an effective governmental response to disasters and determines how quickly communities can recover.

Just as government must have disaster response and mitigation plans in effect, so should individuals and families. In the event of a major disaster, providers of essential services may quickly become overloaded with demand and will need to prioritize and triage responses in accordance with immediate life-safety needs.

Thus, it remains important for individuals and families in our community to plan for disasters and to the extent possible, become self-sufficient for three to five days. Steps may include selecting a location for your family to meet after a disaster, maintaining an emergency survival kit including food, water and matches, as well as having sufficient cash and essential medications on hand. The Division of Emergency Management (676-6681) can provide a free copy of the “Washington State Disaster Preparedness Handbook — An Emergency Planning and Response Guide” which details recommendations and checklists as well as addresses specific issues relating to children, persons with disabilities and pets. Information and links to an online version of the handbook can be obtained through the sheriff’s Web site at www.whatcomcounty.us/sheriff/index.jsp and clicking on the Division of Emergency Management button.

The Sheriff’s Office also works to train community members to help themselves and neighbors through Community Emergency Response Teams. The training teaches people how to take care of their families and neighbors immediately following a major disaster, when professional emergency responders may be overwhelmed. Local CERT graduates provided invaluable assistance at times of emergencies and are a resource the Sheriff’s Office utilizes in times of emergency. CERT training is available to neighbors, church members, employees working together or any other group that may be available to help others in emergencies.

Further information is available by calling the Division of Emergency Management and is also posted on the Web site.

I am pleased to partner with The Bellingham Herald in order to help educate our community about disasters, preparedness and services that are available to assist.