Thousands of Californians are now more prepared for the next disaster. With historic Old Sacramento as the backdrop, the 14th annual California’s Preparedness Day invited the community to learn about disaster preparedness through a litany of educational and fun activities.

The event featured more than 40 state, federal and local agencies, public safety departments and non-profit organization. Showcasing interactive activities, the opportunity to meet first responders and to watch live demonstrations on two separate stages – the Main Stage and River Stage – more than 5,000 attendees flocked to the 1849 scene near the California State Railroad Museum for the free, family-friendly event.

Demonstrations occurred every 15 minutes beginning on the Main Stage and periodically transitioning to the secondary stage on the banks of the Sacramento River. Some demos on the Main Stage included: learning how to escape a vehicle with downed power lines nearby; K-9 officers; organizing a prep kit; and a “jaws of life” vehicle extrication. Aside from swift water rescues on the River Stage, the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Department used an aerial display above the Sacramento River to show how to fight fires with a helicopter water drop.

There also was a mobile earthquake simulator stationed near the main entrance.

Attendees received countless giveaways and informational handouts, as well as the options of face painting and on-stage preparedness games.

California’s Preparedness Day unofficially kicks off National Preparedness Month, which is recognized every September.