The recent series of smaller earthquakes in the Puget Sound area reminds us that we live in earthquake country. We consider it a friendly warning to be prepared.

Map Your Neighborhood (MYN) is a program designed to help neighborhoods prepare for disasters. Neighborhoods that are prepared for disaster situations have better chances of saving lives, reducing injuries and reducing property damage.

You’ll learn the nine steps to take immediately following a disaster. The greatest benefit, of course, is getting to know your neighbors before a disaster and knowing that you’ll respond as a team.

This program is offered through the City of Kirkland Office of Emergency Management.

For more information about Map Your Neighborhood, visit www.kirklandwa.gov/prepare.

Remember: In a disaster your most immediate source of help are the neighbors that live around you.

We’d be happy to help you get your neighborhood prepared.

Susan Vossler and Meredith Bogguess,

Kirkland