January - Floods: Storms can cause flash floods, create power outages and damage homes. Assemble emergency supplies to include sand bags; identify safe routes; teach children to avoid areas of potential flooding; and monitor TV and radio for instructions when flooding occurs.

February - Landslides: Significant property damage can be caused by landslides. Prepare an evacuation kit to include important documents and irreplaceable items such as photographs. When it rains, monitor the amount of rainfall and look for warning signs of landslides such as new springs, tilted trees or holes in hillsides.

March - Tsunamis: Believe it or not, tsunamis have occurred in the Southern California region. If you live within a mile of the coast, identify a safe location you could evacuate to if necessary. If you experience an earthquake lasting 20 seconds or more or learn about a tsunami watch, move to high ground immediately.

April - Earthquakes: No one knows when the next earthquake will hit, but we can reduce its impact by being prepared. Identity hazards and remove or reduce them. Store emergency supplies and replenish them annually. Educate your family where to duck, cover and hold and take a first aid course. Conduct practice drills on a regular basis.

Be prepared by stocking the following items in your vehicle:

* First aid kit (bandages, gauze, tape, etc.)
* Bottled water
* Nonperishable foods
* Blanket or sleeping bag
* Flashlight with extra batteries and bulb
* Fire extinguisher (CO2)
* Pocket radio with extra batteries
* Tools (screwdriver, pliers, wire, pocket knife, can opener)
* Tissues and premoistened towel
* Extra clothes and sturdy shoes
* Short rubber hose for siphoning
* Sealable plastic bags
* Local maps
* Matches
* Toiletries
* Gloves"

Source of safety measures: "Earthquake Guide for Motorists," by Automobile Club of Southern California,

May - Africanized Honey Bees: Instruct family members to use caution when they come in contact with bees. If a swarm chases you, cover your face and eyes, run away quickly in a straight line, and take shelter in a car or building. Check for nests and have a pest control company remove any that are found.

June - Hazardous Materials: You can lessen the possibility of exposure to hazardous substances by following instructions on all chemical products. Limit stored quantities and store out of reach of children. Separate products that could be toxic if combined. Be sure to dispose of hazardous household products safely.

July - Bomb Threats: Knowing what to do in advance and how to react to a bomb threat could possibly save your life and that of those around you. Develop a bomb threat checklist that gives tips to follow should you receive a threat. Contact your local law enforcement agency for more information.

August - Heat Wave: Although sun is necessary, exposure to ultraviolet (U.V.) radiation is potentially dangerous and can damage skin. Heat injuries that can occur include sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Find out now what steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from heat-related injuries.

September - Volcanoes: No one knows for sure when the next volcano will erupt, so we do need to be prepared just in case. Volcanic activity can produce flying rocks and mudflow, heavy ash and dust, and roof collapse. Learn the meanings of designations issued by the USGS and other agencies and discuss response and evacuation plans with local officials.

October - Wild fires: You can reduce your risk of fire-related death, injury or property damage by conducting a fire hazard hunt" and taking steps to make your home and community safer. Have smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in your home; have a plan for evacuation; and know what to do when a fire occurs.

November - Windstorm s/Tornadoes: Before a windstorm or tornado, develop an emergency plan and assemble emergency supply kits; during the windstorm or tornado, stay indoors and listen to the radio; and afterwards, check for and document damage. These actions will help to make you more safe and secure.

December - Carbon Monoxide/Radon: Some tips to remember to avoid Carbon Monoxide poisoning include: Never use charcoal indoors; do not use gas ovens or ranges to heat a room; don’t use gasoline-powered engines in enclosed spaces and don’t idle the car in the garage. Radon levels can be reduced by sealing your home.

Developed by the County of Los Angeles. Additional materials are available through the County Office of Emergency Management. www cert-la. corn

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Last Update: August 31, 2009

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