SE Valley Times

As summer arrives, so does the season of storms. Monsoons can develop rapidly, leading to downed power lines and trees, power outages, and flooded streets within minutes. The elderly and homebound individuals are particularly vulnerable during these events. Mesa authorities urge residents to check on their neighbors to ensure their safety.

“Neighbors can serve as the first line of assistance to those most vulnerable during monsoon season,” said Mesa Fire Chief Mary Cameli. “Getting to know your neighbors and helping each other out with basic needs during and after a monsoon storm helps our first responders focus their efforts on lifesaving and priority response.”

Residents are encouraged to assist older and homebound neighbors by ensuring they have sandbags and other necessary supplies. It is also important to verify that they have backup power sources for medical equipment or means to keep refrigerated prescriptions cool during power outages.

Mesa advises all residents to prepare an evacuation plan for severe situations and maintain a disaster kit containing water, non-perishable foods, flashlights, batteries, medications, and first aid supplies. Pet owners should also assemble a disaster kit for their animals. Staying updated on weather forecasts is crucial.

Sand and empty bags are available at several fire stations (bring your own shovel):

- Fire Station 202, 830 S. Stapley Drive

- Fire Station 205, 730 S. Greenfield Road

- Fire Station 209, 7035 E. Southern Ave.

- Fire Station 212, 2430 E. Ellsworth Road

Pre-filled sandbags can be found at:

- Transportation Building, 300 E. 6th St. (west side of building)

- East Mesa Service Center, 6935 E. Decatur St. (front parking lot)

For more information on storm preparation and contact numbers, visit mesaaz.gov/storm.

The City of Mesa also provides emergency updates via Twitter (@cityofmesa) and Facebook (facebook.com/CityofMesa).