Sign up for Boots on the Ground drill by Sept. 12

EMERGENCY DRILL

As many LW residents know, “You’re On Your Own” in the event of an emergency disaster. As an initiative to minimize risk, ensure safety and reduce calamity, Boots on the Ground practice an emergency preparedness plan two times a year in April and September.

On Sept. 18 at 10 a.m., the group will hold the second drill of the year, which will take approximately 30-40 minutes.

Radio personnel will monitor family radios on channel 13.0 for residents, and Boots on the Ground volunteers will be on channels 18.0 or 22.0. Residents who have radios are reminded to check the battery is charged and working properly before the drill. Different channels are provided to manage heavy communication traffic.

When a disaster occurs, Leisure World may or may not be part of the situation. At the very least, residents are encouraged to tune into alerts and warnings, and have a personal go bag with emergency supplies ready to be on their own for 3-7 days minimum. If alerted to “shelter in place,” stay in place to minimize confusion and remain calm.

Those who are willing and able are encouraged to join the Boots on the Ground drill, which consists of 10 groups who will be the eyes, ears, hands and feet on the ground.

The groups are:

• Bike owners

• LW Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members

• Clergy

• Drone operators

• Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

• Heavy equipment operators

• Paws, Claws and Beaks

• Radio Ham Operators (FCC licensed)

• Golf cart owners

• Retired and practicing medical personnel, therapists, firefighters and social workers Those who want to participate in the drill should email GRF Health and Safety Manager Eloy Gomez no later than Sept. 12 with their contact information and preferred group to eloyg@lwsb.com or call 562-431-6586, ext. 2356 .

—Marty Williams