Piedmont residents will receive an AC Alert emergency notification around 9 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 5 asking them to participate in the city’s first ever community wildfire evacuation drill, the city said in a press release on Oct. 31. This exercise is aimed at helping residents improve their own readiness to evacuate in a wildfire, and also give emergency responders important training in real-world situations.
Most residents will receive an alert with instructions for a wildfire readiness activity to complete at home. Residents on Maxwelton Road, Abbot Way, Echo Lane, and Nellie Avenue will receive a different alert instructing them to evacuate their homes and go to Community Hall. Emergency responders will be knocking on doors in this neighborhood around 9 a.m. on Nov. 5 as part of the drill.
Alerts will be delivered via text message and email.
Following the drill, everyone is invited to a wildfire preparedness event starting at 10 a.m. at Piedmont Community Hall (711 Highland Avenue). Following remarks from city officials, participants will have an opportunity to ask questions and share observations from their experience.
“Our changing climate means wildfires are more frequent and destructive than ever” said Piedmont Fire Chief Dave Brannigan. “By taking the time now to prepare our homes and practice evacuation, we will all be better prepared to take lifesaving actions quickly when a fire comes our way.”
Anyone not yet registered for AC Alert notifications should sign up HERE or text their zip code to 888-777. Piedmont and Alameda County public safety officials will use this system to send evacuation warnings and orders in a fire, earthquake, or other emergency.
Advance registration for the preparedness event at Community Hall is encouraged. To register and for more information about the Nov. 5 drill please visit piedmont.ca.gov/WildfireDrill.