OJAI : Poll Planned on Aid During Earthquake

Ojai officials are preparing to ask residents if they will need special medical attention or can help others in the event of a major earthquake.

The City Council on Tuesday approved the first draft of a new pamphlet, “Plan to Be a Quake Survivor,” with tips on what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Residents who are willing to offer portable phones, generators, ham radios, medical training or ability to transport animals may list their skills or services on a portion of the pamphlet and mail it to City Hall.

Counselors, language translators and those with tow trucks or construction equipment are also asked to sign up before disaster strikes.

“We’re motivated by our topography because the potential for isolation from other emergency agencies is very real here,” said Elaine Willman, assistant to the city manager.

The brochure will be mailed to all Ojai households early next year after it is reviewed by the Ventura County Fire Protection District and the Sheriff’s Department Office of Emergency Services.