In a recent government meeting, officials highlighted the importance of community engagement in disaster preparedness, particularly focusing on youth involvement. The Office of Emergency Services (OES) presented its initiatives aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness among young residents in Nevada County.

Alessandra Zambrano, the county wildfire coordinator, emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to disaster readiness, stating that the county's unique network of disaster preparedness ambassadors spans various demographics. However, she noted a significant gap in outreach to young families and youth, prompting the creation of a youth emergency preparedness project.

Suleika Denise, a youth outreach intern, shared her experiences and strategies for increasing youth engagement. She identified social media, particularly Instagram, as a crucial platform for reaching younger audiences, as many do not use Facebook. Suleika's initiatives included distributing engaging materials at popular local venues and creating eye-catching promotional content, such as short videos and vibrant flyers.

The meeting also addressed the broader implications of youth engagement in disaster preparedness, with board members recognizing that educating young people can lead to increased awareness and preparedness within their families. The discussion underscored the importance of adapting outreach strategies to meet the interests and habits of younger generations.

Public comments reflected support for the initiatives, with community members praising the efforts to involve youth in safety education. Concerns were raised about the accessibility of evacuation resources for disabled youth, highlighting the need for inclusive planning in emergency response strategies.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adopt the proposed outreach strategies, marking a significant step towards fostering a more resilient community through youth engagement in disaster preparedness.