Emergency Preparedness Committee reorganizes

The Canyon Lake Emergency Preparedness Committee (CLEPC) announced Nate Duer as its new president. Nate is a former U.S. Marine who has lived in Canyon Lake with his wife Lori and two children for many years. He has been a CLEPC participating member, emergency responder, ham radio operator and former board member.

Lisa Monson was elected vice president. She is a registered nurse who is currently homeschooling her two children and running an online business. She is new to the CLEPC but very enthusiastic about bringing her skills to the organization.

Nancy Horton was elected secretary. Nancy served six years on the Canyon Lake City Council and was appointed mayor in 2010. She also was elected as director to EVMWD for four years. She had FEMA training as part of her board responsibilities at EVMWD.

Frank Smith continues in his volunteer role as treasurer.

Nancy Carroll will serve as education chairman. She will be sure to make training available to anyone who wants to participate.

The CLEPC meets monthly on the first Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall. The public is welcome to attend meetings.

The CLEPC is seeking new members. The requirements are to take the LiveScan, fill out a form describing any training you have already taken and agree to take part in any way you choose. The committee has nurses, doctors, area coordinators and teams that do assessments during drills and actual emergencies.

There are individuals who “man” the shelters at the Canyon Lake Senior Center and Operations. Some bring hot food to emergency crews who are working long shifts. There is room for any level of participation.

One very unique thing about the emergency preparedness in Canyon Lake is that the city forms the Emergency Operations Center during emergencies.

Personnel communicate directly with the county, state and federal government including FEMA. The Fire and Police Departments work seamlessly with the city’s EOC to coordinate efforts.

Canyon Lake POA personnel “man” the barricades at the causeways and respond to incidents. Operations personnel work year-long to keep drains clear and remove hazards.

Volunteers from the CLEPC may be called upon to open the five sheds to access medical equipment, cots, blankets, supplies and even dog and cat kennels. Many years of preparation have gone into the level of preparedness in the field that the CLEPC can provide.

In an effort to keep the emergency preparedness in peak condition, the CLEPC will need more volunteers, updating of its communications system and replenishing of supplies.

The CLEPC particularly needs people to help with damage assessment in the south area. The committee makes sure its volunteers get the training they need.

Residents interested in joining the CLEPC, are asked to contact Dee Walker at 949-466-7741.