Take part in disaster preparedness, join CLEPC

The mission of the Canyon Lake Emergency Preparedness Committee is to encourage, implement and support an emergency services response and disaster management system that protects the citizens of Canyon Lake from effects of major emergencies and disasters while fostering a leadership vision where everyone practices sound emergency management concepts and principles that protect lives, property and the environment.

Throughout the years, the CLEPC has worked hard on fine-tuning and following the county and state guidelines to make Canyon Lake as prepared as it can be.

In an effort to keep the emergency preparedness in peak condition, more volunteers are needed. The CLEPC particularly needs people to help with damage assessment in the south area.

Training is provided and there is room for all levels of participation, from manning the shelter at the senior center to bringing hot food to emergency crews working long shifts.

Volunteers also may be called upon to operate HAM radios, assess damage and open the five sheds to access medical equipment, cots, blankets and supplies.

The CLEPC meets monthly on the first Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall. For volunteer information, contact Dee Walker at 949-466-7741.

History of the CLEPC

In 1989, well before Canyon Lake became incorporated, the residents of this rural development gathered to form a group of volunteers who would respond to emergencies in Canyon Lake.

\Membership was built on asking each of the clubs to send two representatives to attend meetings.

The volunteers went door to door asking for donations of shovels, tarps, medical equipment, or any other items that could possibly be needed after a disaster.

The first CLEPC president moved away about eight months later and Frank Webster was appointed to the position of president until his resignation in 1991. Nancy Carroll stepped into the position after Frank resigned and served as president for the next 25 years. Larry Greene succeeded Nancy as president. Nate Duer serves as the current president.

The demographics of Canyon Lake are much different now; Riverside County has established a comprehensive disaster response system, citizens of Canyon Lake are busily involved with work, raising families and commuting and Canyon Lake is no longer “rural.”

The CLEPC needs volunteers not to disappear. Volunteerism is difficult to sustain, preparedness is essential.