DEM improves language access for emergency services with multilingual resources

In a recent government meeting, San Francisco County officials emphasized the importance of language access in emergency services, highlighting the Department of Emergency Management (DEM) as a leader in this area. The discussions centered around the county's commitment to ensuring that vital information is accessible to all residents, regardless of their primary language.

One of the key initiatives presented was the availability of disaster preparedness resources on the website 72hours.org, which offers brochures in five languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, and Vietnamese. This multilingual approach aims to enhance community readiness and ensure that all residents can access critical information during emergencies.

The meeting also addressed the public outdoor warning system, specifically the Tuesday noon sirens, which serve as a regular reminder for residents. Notably, these alerts are broadcast in Spanish at two locations and in Cantonese at 18 locations, with the majority of broadcasts occurring in English. This effort reflects a broader strategy to reach diverse communities effectively.

Furthermore, the officials reported that approximately 13,000 calls to 911 each year require translation services, representing about 1.5% of the total call volume. The state provides a language line service that supports communication in 185 languages, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder emergency response. Funding for these services comes from the state emergency telephone number account, known as Cetna.

The meeting concluded with a mention of the 30 certified dispatchers fluent in multiple languages, including Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, French, Vietnamese, and Russian. This diverse team is crucial for effective communication during emergencies, reinforcing the county's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Overall, the discussions highlighted San Francisco County's proactive measures to enhance language access in emergency services, ensuring that all residents can receive timely and critical information in their preferred language. As the county continues to develop these initiatives, the focus remains on improving community preparedness and response capabilities for all residents.