Be Prepared
Valley of the Falls Community Center, Inc. supports our communities in emergencies and natural disasters. The Gail D. Cox Community Center at Big Falls Lodge serves as an official Community Resource Center activated by Southern California Edison during Public Safety Power Shutoffs. It offers affected residents complimentary water, light snacks, Wi-Fi, heating or cooling, and charging stations for mobile devices and medical equipment. Additionally, the Lodge acts as a safe haven shelter for first responders, emergency equipment, visitors, and displaced residents during wildfires, floods, and other crisis situations.
How to Prepare
1
Make a Family Disaster Plan
Get your family ready for emergencies by planning, preparing and practicing together. Discover how to create disaster kits for both your home and vehicle, establish a communication plan, understand evacuation procedures, and maintain your family's health during a crisis. Download your family disaster plan kit below, follow the outlined steps, and store the plan in an easily accessible location for everyone.
3
Prepare Your Pets
In times of emergency or disaster, our first thoughts are often with our loved ones, and we act to keep them safe. However, our pets are also cherished family members, and it’s essential to take measures to ensure their well-being during such events. Learn how to keep your pets safe during a disaster and what you should prepare for them with the helpful guide below.
5
Prepare for Utility Outages
We frequently overlook our electricity, water, propane, internet, and phone services until they fail. In the event of a prolonged power outage, not only will your home be dark and appliances inoperable, but cell service towers and water pumps that bring water into your home may also stop functioning. It's essential to know how to prepare, particularly during severe weather. Check out the guides at the links below to learn how to manage utility outages effectively.
2
Prepare Your Home
Preparing your home for potential disasters is essential for your safety. This involves reinforcing your home against fire, establishing a defensible space in case of a wildfire, understanding the water flow in flood stages around your property and implementing measures to redirect it, securing heavy items that could fall during an earthquake, and safeguarding your home and trash from bears. Explore the useful guides linked below to discover effective ways to prepare your home.
4
Stay Supplied
Life in a small, rural community presents distinct advantages, but it also entails certain challenges. Historically, our communities have faced isolation lasting days, weeks, or even months during natural disasters, leaving us without access to grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential services. Discover what essentials you should stockpile at home to support your family during such times.
6
Know Your Community Resources
In challenging times, our communities unite to offer support. The food bank at Valley of the Falls Community Church provides assistance when its needed most, while the Forest Falls Animal Rescue Team stepped in during a wildfire evacuation to care for cherished pets left behind. Additionally, the Gail D. Cox Community Center at Big Falls Lodge has welcomed residents and visitors seeking shelter during disasters. While we hope to never reach extremes, there are safe havens and essential supplies available when needed. The map below is a guide for where to go when all other options have been exhausted.
What To Do In Emergencies
Wildfires
Wildfires in our mountainous areas present a serious danger. In September 2020, the El Dorado Fire (pictured here) devastated our communities, causing evacuations and significant forest damage. When a wildfire ignites, keep updated on its status using real-time information apps like Watch Duty on your phone, stay alert for evacuation orders, and familiarize yourself with safety protocols and the S.T.A.R. sites in our area.
What To Do in the Event of a Fire
El Dorado Fire in Mill Creek Canyon, 2020
Photo Courtesy David Russell
Flood Damage on Valley of the Falls Drive
Photo Courtesy Michelle Macri
Floods
Our communities have faced a prolonged history of devastating floods. Winter floods have repeatedly harmed homes, roads, and bridges. The summer monsoon season often brings intense rainfall, resulting in sudden flash floods that have sadly resulted in loss of life in our creeks and washes. These incidents can leave us cut off for days, weeks, or even months. Discover tips on how to stay safe during a flood event at the links below
What to Do in the Event of a Flood
Video of Flood Damage
Flash Flood on Mill Creek
Earthquakes
Our communities are situated within the San Andreas Fault Zone, with the fault actually intersecting Highway 38 near the Mill Creek Ranger Station. This closeness to the San Andreas makes us particularly susceptible, and during a significant earthquake, it could take a while for emergency services to arrive. Additionally, large rocks and debris from the nearby ridges pose serious risks. It's important to understand your risks in the event of an earthquake and to prepare by reviewing the resources provided below.
What to Do During An Earthquake
California Black Bear, Photo courtesy David Russell
Wildlife
Sharing our lives with wildlife can bring joy, but it also comes with risks for both humans and animals in our communities. Providing wild animals with access to human food and trash is irresponsible and can have fatal consequences. Stay vigilant for rattlesnakes near your home or while walking during warmer months. The links below provide valuable information on coexisting peacefully with our wild neighbors.
What to Do in a Wildlife Encounter
Winter Conditions
The tranquility and beauty of a snowy day in our mountains is something we eagerly anticipate. However, it also comes with its challenges, as ice and heavy snowfall can lead to falling branches, downed power lines, hazardous road conditions, and structural stress. Additionally, the influx of visitors can create unsafe situations and traffic congestion. If you find yourself at home during a major snowstorm, stay indoors; if you're down the hill, be ready to shelter in place.
What to Do in a Snow Emergency
Ice on Valley of the Falls Drive,
Photo courtesy Michelle Macri
Debris flow on Valley of the Falls Drive at Wood Road September 18, 2025, Photo Courtesy Shannon Wray
Slides
&
Debris Flows
The slopes around our homes are steep, often consisting of loose shale, large boulders, and soil that can easily shift during heavy weather and earthquakes. Landslides and mudslides have been known to block roadways, isolate sections of our communities, damage property, and even lead to fatalities, including the rare avalanche during snowy winters. Being aware of vulnerable areas and what lies above your home can help you mitigate these risks.
What to Do in the Event of a Slide
Accidents
&
Road Closures
At times, accidents and road closures can significantly impact our lives. A serious highway accident might keep us from reaching home, and a manhunt a few years back closed off the entire mountain. While living closely in a community allows us to support each other, there are resources available to enhance our safety and help us prepare for unforeseen events. Learn when and how to offer assistance below.
What to Do in an Accident or Closure
Accident on Highway 38 with road closure,
Photo courtesy Jeff Schaefer
Big Falls rescue, Photo courtesy David Russell
Hiking
Safety
Forest Falls serves as an entrance to the San Bernardino National Forest and the San Gorgonio Wilderness. The trails lead to stunning waterfalls, the peak of Mount San Gorgonio, the tallest mountain in Southern California, or offer an unforgettable experience on the Pacific Crest Trail. However, each year, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department and the San Gorgonio Search and Rescue Team often respond to hoist and ground rescues for hikers and campers who may be unprepared or require medical help. Discover how to safely enjoy your time in the forest with these helpful tips.
What To Do When Lost Or Injured
Sponsors
This preparedness initiative was made possible with a grant awarded in partnership with the California Fire Foundation and with a grant awarded by Southern California Edison. Valley of the Falls Community Center, inc is grateful for the support from these partners in keeping our communities prepared and safe.
