Beyond survival mode: Forging resilient community bonds before disaster strikes

Each time, I think we must break the cycle of crisis complacency that has become the norm. 

The recent Los Angeles wildfires weren’t isolated events but symptoms of our changing reality — where emergencies trigger cascading effects that ripple through communities in ways traditional response models never anticipated. These cascades include widespread homelessness as thousands lose their homes, renters face displacement from undamaged buildings due to market pressures, and already vulnerable populations find themselves without shelter. Mental health crises emerge as trauma, anxiety and PTSD affect both survivors and first responders. Children’s education is disrupted when schools close, while job losses mount as businesses burn and workers can’t reach their workplaces. The physical health impacts extend far beyond the flames, with toxic smoke causing respiratory problems that may last for years, while contaminated water and soil create environmental hazards that linger long after the fires are extinguished.

These complex challenges demand a new approach to disaster preparedness — one that builds resilience before crisis strikes. That’s why we’re hosting the Wildfire Safe & Ready event on April 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the San Mateo County Event Center. This event represents the beginning of a fundamental shift in how we prepare our communities for disasters. Everyone who lives, works and enjoys San Mateo County is invited to learn about wildfire and disaster safety. We’ll have panel discussions, exhibitions and more at this family-friendly event that includes visits from Smokey Bear and California’s own fire-safety mascot, Captain Cal.

This event, importantly, also kicks off a shift in the way we, as local emergency managers, think about and plan for wildfires and any number of other potential threats to our health and safety. The traditional emergency management approach focuses on operational efficiency and individual preparedness. While these remain essential, they’re insufficient for our interconnected challenges. Our approach must evolve from simply being “disaster ready” to creating “community resilience” — a fabric of connections, knowledge and mutual support that withstands and adapts to whatever comes our way.

At Wildfire Ready, we’re modeling this new approach. We’ll have practical demonstrations on building go bags and expert panels featuring wildfire specialists, fire chiefs and survivors sharing their experiences.

To emergency management professionals: Our role isn’t simply to prepare and respond to disasters — it’s to help our communities reimagine and build a more resilient future with us. This means embracing proven practices and emerging innovations, always with an eye toward sustainable, accessible solutions that engage the whole community.

To community members: Preparation includes building connections. Get to know your neighbors. Engage with your local emergency management office. Join community preparedness initiatives. Come to Be Wildfire Safe & Ready.

All disasters begin and end locally. The strongest emergency response systems are built on a foundation of strong community relationships – neighbors checking on neighbors, local organizations mobilizing resources and community leaders stepping forward together.

When crises strike and cascade, like the fires in Los Angeles, it’s not distant policies that make the difference — it’s the strength of our local communities and the relationships we’ve cultivated.

As a physician, I learned that healing doesn’t come from technology alone but from the body’s resilience, supported by careful intervention. Similarly, our community’s strength comes from within, supported by the tools and systems we put in place together.

We have the power to transform how our communities face disasters by building relationships, sharing knowledge and taking action together. At Be Wildfire Safe & Ready, let’s use our collective initiative to create something new — a community of resilience that stands ready for whatever the future brings.

Dr. Shruti Dhapodkar is the director of the San Mateo County Department of Emergency Management.