SDCEA Equestrian Committee Event: Evacuation & Emergency Preparedness Clinic

Members of the SDCEA Equestrian Committee led by Committee Chair Missi Stone and Committee Secretary Vanessa Jerrell welcomed over 30 participants to an event during the scorching heat-filled morning of Saturday, Sept. 7. Cold drinks, light refreshments, and a complimentary emergency kit were prepared by Missi and Vanessa for guests to enjoy before the experts on Evacuation and Emergency preparedness presented helpful information while others were available on the sidelines and at tables.

San Diego County Sheriff’s Department Sergeant Daniel R. Sloppye opened the clinic and shared helpful information about the critical role of sheriff’s department personnel and the services they provide in emergencies. Three Ramona patrol deputies stood by.

Battalion Chief Bud Sullins from CAL FIRE San Diego County - Ramona Fire Station 81 raised awareness about firefighter challenges in an evacuation and emergency and stressed preparedness as a fundamental action. Planning for people and families is critical, and additional preparation steps are equally important for pet and horse evacuations.

The experienced animal control officer with San Diego County, Denise “DJ” Gove, presented helpful emergency preparation information specific to animals, especially horses, which was well received by the equestrian-owning participants. Her caring personality and firsthand knowledge facilitated an easy-to-understand presentation on highly specific topics, including local and state emergency requirements for pets and the collaborative nature of the many organizations that work together in an emergency.

Topics Presented

• The importance of planning for your horses
• Shelter-in-place procedures
• Temporary Evacuation Point details in case of evacuation
• Best practices for evacuating horses
• Ensuring your trailer is connected correctly
• Inspecting your trailer for safety and readiness
• Handling horses that are difficult to load
• Personal Liability

DJ walked through many situations and best practices for evacuation and preparedness and addressed participants' questions and comments. Many others were on hand to assist in answering questions and providing information including volunteers Julie Swain and Todd Cameron.

View the entire presentation here.

MORE INFORMATION

DJ Gove, Emergency Coordinator for the County of San Diego, Department of Animal Services: Oversees emergency preparedness and response efforts for animals during disasters, including coordinating evacuations, sheltering, and providing guidance on animal safety and welfare.

San Diego County Animal Response Team (SDCART): Provides emergency response services for animals during disasters, including rescuing and evacuating animals, setting up emergency shelters, and coordinating with other agencies to ensure animal safety and care.

For more information, click here.

Ramona West End Fire Safe Council: Works to enhance community wildfire preparedness and safety by promoting fire prevention strategies, conducting educational outreach, organizing community events, and collaborating with local agencies to reduce fire risks and improve emergency response capabilities in the Ramona area.

For more information, click here.

Kahoots in Ramona donated an emergency first aid kit. Teresa O’Donnell and Rosalinda Stevenson from the SDG&E Wildfire Preparedness Team were on hand and provided information and materials.