Pasadena Fire Department Urges Residents to Begin New Year With Preparedness Challenge

The Pasadena Fire Department is encouraging residents to take part in a New Year’s preparedness challenge, saying the start of the year is an ideal time to focus on basic safety steps that can make a significant difference during an emergency.

The department is asking the community to complete the preparedness challenge, emphasizing that small actions taken now can improve readiness when disasters occur.

This year’s challenge emphasizes three essential steps:

1. Create an Evacuation Plan
Know when you would leave, where you would go, and how you would get there during an emergency. Identify multiple routes, a meeting location, and plans for pets or medical needs. Share the plan with everyone in your household.

2. Know Your Neighbors
Emergencies are easier to face together. Knowing who lives nearby and who may need assistance improves communication and safety. Share your contact information if you feel comfortable to do so. Even basic familiarity can help during evacuations or extended outages.

3. Build a Go Bag
A go bag should support at least 72 hours away from home. Include water, food, medications, documents, chargers, and basic supplies. Store it where it can be quickly accessed.

As an added step, sign up for local alert systems to receive timely updates:

• PLEAS (Pasadena Local Emergency Alert System): Receive texts, calls, or emails for Pasadena-specific emergencies. Sign up for PLEAS alerts on the City of Pasadena website.
• Nixle: Text your ZIP code to 888777 for local updates or register at Nixle.com.

Preparedness doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Tackle one step each week and involve your family or household. A little planning now can reduce stress and save valuable time later.