The purpose of the Safety Element is to eliminate and minimize risks associated with natural and human-generated hazards such as floods, earthquakes, and hazardous materials. By assessing and preparing for levels of risk, the city can endure the range of safety hazards and adapt to changes over time.
This element works in tandem with other elements of the General Plan, such as the Public Services Element, which has goals and policies related to police, fire, and health services; emergency planning; and resiliency.
The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) for the City of Santa Ana planning area was developed in accordance with the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000) and followed FEMA’s 2011 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan guidance. The LHMP incorporates a process where hazards are identified and profiled, the people and facilities at risk are analyzed, and mitigation actions are developed to reduce or eliminate hazard risk. The implementation of these mitigation actions, which include both short and long-term strategies, involve planning, policy changes, programs, projects, and other activities.