Nevada County has introduced a new emergency preparedness tool called Zonehaven, aimed at enhancing evacuation safety and efficiency during emergencies. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their designated zones by visiting community.zonehaven.com and entering their addresses. This information will be crucial during evacuations, as it supplements existing alert systems like Nixle and Code Red, providing clarity on which areas are being evacuated or placed under advisory.

The initiative is part of a broader educational campaign, \"Ready, Set, Go,\" which focuses primarily on wildfire preparedness, a significant concern for the region. The program outlines a three-tiered approach: preparing residents before an emergency, setting them in a state of readiness during heightened threats, and executing evacuations when necessary.

Local residents shared personal experiences emphasizing the importance of home safety measures. One resident recounted how the devastating 49er fire prompted her to enhance her home's defenses, including creating defensible space and using non-combustible materials. The Fire Safe Council has been instrumental in educating homeowners on these practices.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the need for residents with medical equipment to have backup power solutions, such as generators or batteries, to ensure their needs are met during power outages or emergencies. The community is urged to consider essential supplies for various scenarios, including storms and public safety power shutoffs, to ensure they are adequately prepared for any disaster.