Neighborhood Preparedness Block Party

SB County Ready Together Neighborhood Block Party Program

The Ready Together Block Party is a free, hands-on neighborhood preparedness program offered by the San Bernardino County Office of Emergency Services (OES).  The program blends the fun of a neighborhood gathering with practical training that helps residents connect, plan, and prepare for emergencies together.  

The City of Chino Hills partners with San Bernardino County to help connect interested neighborhoods directly with the Ready Together Block Party Program.

Block Party Image

What the Block Party Teaches

Residents who participate will learn how to:

  • Build a family emergency plan
  • Assemble essential emergency kits
  • Understand local alerts and warnings
  • Work together immediately after a disaster by following  nine key steps
  • Map neighborhood resources, such as:
    • Gas shutoff locations
    • Identify households that may need extra assistance during an emergency, such as seniors, individuals with disabilities, or others with access or functional needs

The session also includes a short evacuation-planning video, hands-on activities, and a neighborhood planning exercise.

For a full overview of the activities and training topics, view the Block Party Host Presentation (PDF) provided by San Bernardino County OES. 

Program Format

Each Block Party session lasts 2-4 hours, depending on neighborhood size and interest. Residents can choose from two participation options:

  • Option 1: County Facilitated Training
    • County OES staff will lead the preparedness training.
    • Hosts must provide a suitable location and basic technology (e.g., a space to display a PowerPoint)
  • Option 2: Resident-Led Training
    • Residents who want to lead their own Block Party can attend a County "Host Training", which provides all the tools they need to run the event themselves.
    • Host trainings are in person, and the County is currently working to provide an online option.

What Materials Are Provided

San Bernardino County OES provides:

  • Training Kits for 20-40 people
  • Printed guidebooks
  • Block Party Signage and activity materials

Hosts provide the gathering location and any optional refreshments.

How to Sign Up

County-facilitated Block Party bookings must be made at least one month in advance, but the County may require more advanced notice depending on availability. Neighborhoods interested in hosting a Block Party or signing up for resident-led training should contact San Bernardino County OES by phone at (909) 356-3998, or by emailing Kaylan.Johnson@oes.sbcounty.gov or Rosemary.Alford@oes.sbcounty.gov.

Preparedness in Action Presentations

In addition to the Block Party program, the county offers a Preparedness in Action presentation, which explains:

  • How the County coordinates emergency response
  • How residents can prepare at home
  • What to expect during major incidents

Residents or community groups can request this presentation through the same County OES contact information above.