By Elise Gray
Special to the Alpine Mountaineer
In response to the power outage – caused primarily by wind damage to Southern California Edison equipment – that left the mountain communities without electricity, the San Bernardino County Office of Emergency Services stepped in to provide resources to affected residents.
The event, held on Saturday, Jan. 11, was organized at several locations, including two in the San Bernardino Mountains: the Twin Peaks Community Center and the Robert Hootman Community Center in Running Springs. OES was joined by representatives of the county’s Public Health department.
“We’ve helped over 200 people just today. The team is giving out solar phone chargers and lanterns,” said Rosemary, who’s been with the agency for nine years. San Bernardino County also distributed essential supplies such as gloves, masks, garbage bags and information on food waste disposal.
County officials distributed solar phone chargers, lanterns, gloves, masks and information on safe food disposal to residents at the Twin Peaks Community Center. (Photo by Mary-Justine Lanyon)
Dave, a local emergency preparedness expert, reminded residents of the importance of staying ready for power outages and other emergencies. “Make sure you have fuel for your generator, lanterns, batteries charged and maintain contact with someone outside of your area,” he advised. To further aid mountain residents, the county highly encouraged attendees to sign up for Smart911 by scanning a provided QR code. This service enables first responders to access crucial information about families during emergencies, enhancing the safety and speed of response efforts.
The Twin Peaks Community Center had seen approximately 50 attendees by midday, with more residents expected to stop by. The county emphasized that resources were available on a first-come, first-served basis and encouraged those impacted to visit the centers.
SCE was also set up at the Hootman Center, offering firewood, blankets, water and snacks to those affected by the power outage.
San Bernardino County’s response and coordinated efforts with SCE highlighted the importance of community resilience in the face of natural challenges. Events like these not only provide immediate relief but also equip residents with the tools and knowledge to take on future emergencies more effectively.
For more information about disaster preparedness, visit oes.sbcounty.gov.
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