City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan available for public comment

The City of Pomona has updated our Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). This plan is designed to create a safer community for residents, businesses, and visitors. The LHMP provides public safety officials, city staff, elected officials, and the public with a comprehensive understanding of the threats from natural and human-caused hazards in our community. It also recommends specific actions to proactively mitigate these threats before disasters occur.

WHY HAVE AN LHMP?

An LHMP enables Pomona to better plan for future emergencies. Typically, communities focus on recovery and rebuilding after a disaster. However, an LHMP allows the City to prepare in advance, reducing damage and easing recovery when disasters occur. By implementing LHMP strategies, we can minimize property damage, injuries, and loss of life. This proactive approach not only protects public health and safety but also saves money, with studies showing that every dollar spent on mitigation saves an average of four dollars in response and recovery costs.

In addition to protecting Pomona, our LHMP makes the City eligible for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants, which can be used to further enhance safety and preparedness. Having an adopted LHMP also increases the likelihood of receiving additional financial assistance from the State during disasters.

WHAT HAZARDS WILL OUR LHMP HELP PROTECT AGAINST?

The current plan addresses the following natural and human-caused hazards:

• Earthquake/Geologic Hazards
• Landslide
• Wildfire
• Flooding
• Windstorm
• Infectious Disease
• Climate Change (Discussed within each hazard)

Our LHMP also examines how climate change may influence these hazards and includes any other threats that pose a risk to our community.

WHEN WILL OUR LHMP BE UPDATED AGAIN?

The Pomona City Council adopted the final LHMP in October 2022. To remain eligible for hazard mitigation grant funding, the City of Pomona will need to update this plan in five years, in October 2027.

WHAT CAN I DO NOW TO BE BETTER PREPARED FOR DISASTERS?

• Know the Hazards: Identify the hazards that may affect your home, work, or school. Visit MyHazards for more information.
• Assemble an Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with supplies for at least three days, including items for pets and individuals with special needs. Learn more at Ready.gov.
• Create a Disaster Plan: Develop a plan for how your household will communicate and where you will meet during a disaster.
• Help Your Neighbors: Be aware of neighbors with special needs and check on them during emergencies, as responders may not reach your area immediately.
• Insurance Coverage: Ensure your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers disasters such as earthquakes and floods.
• Volunteer: Join emergency response or community service organizations focused on disaster education and preparation.
• Workplace Preparedness: Encourage your employer to create or review disaster recovery, workforce communication, and business continuity plans.
• Join your nearest CERT: Volunteer with your nearest Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Training is free and available throughout the year. More information can be found at Community Emergency Response Team - Fire Department (lacounty.gov)