Amanda Ripley is a journalist who has interviewed many disaster survivors. In her reporting, she observed that decisiveness was a key quality among survivors. When regular people take action, it saves lives. In her 19-minute video, she explains that in an unexpected and sudden disaster, humans go through 3 stages of emotions:

• Denial (disbelief and delay in recognizing the situation)
• Deliberation (milling with others on what to do next)
• Decisiveness and flee or shut down and stay

As an example of Denial and Deliberation: people prefer normalcy, so they check with 5 sources before evacuating for a hurricane. The way to get to Decisiveness faster is to be prepared and be alert to your situation. Preparedness is practice. Practice your evacuation with your family.  Sign up for alerts. Have your Go Bag ready on Red Flag Warning days (high winds, low moisture), and do anything else to help you feel Ready for Wildfire.

Thank you to Chip Swan of WPV-Ready for bringing Amanda Ripley’s video to light.

Please subscribe to Portola Valley eNotices from the WPC and eNotifications from WFPD.  

PV homeowners are encouraged to participate in the WPC’s on-going 5-minute insurance tracking project. Go here to report on your home insurance availability and affordability.

San Mateo County Alert System SMC Alert is our primary emergency notification system. Encourage all adult members (18 and older) of your family to subscribe.

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