DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

Reality Check: Life on Bainbridge Island after a Major Earthquake

During a disaster, resources are allocated to areas where they can do the most good for the largest number of people. We will be competing for these resources and it's very likely we will be a low priority in comparison to larger metropolitan areas such as Seattle and Tacoma. 

  • Resources on the island will be limited and emergency response teams will be dispatched where they can do the most good for the greatest number of people.
  • The Agate Pass bridge may be down, or closed for an extended period of time until its structural integrity can be assured. 
  • Ferry service may be stopped, or closed to the public for an extended period of time; the dock and other WSF facilities may be damaged, further complicating the situation. 
  • You may be separated from your family for an extended period of time. 
  • You, or a member of your family, might be injured.  Accessibility to medical care, supplies and treatment options will be limited.
  • Electricity, phone, water/sewer systems will be out of service for an extended period of time. Wells and septic systems may be damaged and out of service as well. Waste/refuse disposal services may be stopped.
  • Widespread damage to infrastructure, residential, commercial and government buildings. 
  • No gasoline or propane available for an extended period of time.
  • Grocery stores, restaurants, and businesses may be closed for an extended period of time. Food, supplies and cash may be hard to come by.

Are you and your family ready for this? Do you have the supplies on hand to sustain your household for an extended period of time?

There are simple steps you can take to prepare!

  • Stay Informed: Sign-up to get emergency alerts from the City of Bainbridge Island, the Bainbridge Island Fire Department and the Bainbridge Island Police Department sent directly to your cell phone or inbox. Signing up for the alerts is easy and free- just text 98110 (BI zipcode) to 888777.
  • Make a Plan: Develop a emergency response plan for you and those in your household.  Work together with neighbors, colleagues, and others to build community resilience. Learn about the Map Your Neighborhood program.
  • Protect yourself when the earth shakes: Here's how. 
  • Build an Emergency Kit: If you do a simple internet search for emergency kits or disaster kits you will find hundreds of sources. (Most kits contain items you may already have around the house; you just need to get those items assembled and set aside for emergencies or disasters.) To help you get started, we recommend these items.
  • Get Involved: There are many ways to get involved especially before a disaster occurs. The whole community can participate in programs and activities to make their families, homes and places of worship safer from risks and threats. Community leaders agree that the formula for ensuring a safer homeland consists of volunteers, a trained and informed public, and increased support of emergency response agencies during disasters.
  • Check out this site:  www.bainbridgeprepares.org 
  • Learn more:  Watch this video produced by the Bainbridge Island Rotary.