San Bernardino County seeks public input on 2027 disaster preparedness plan

San Bernardino County is asking residents to weigh in on its 2027 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP), the county's core framework for reducing risks from natural and human-caused disasters[1]. The plan is updated every five years, making this an opportunity for Big Bear Valley residents to push for stronger protections tailored to mountain-specific hazards[1].

For communities like Big Bear Lake and Big Bear City, the stakes are real. Wildfires, extended road closures during winter storms, and the valley's geographic isolation create emergency scenarios that don't always get adequate attention in county-wide planning documents. Whether past MJHMP cycles have fully addressed those mountain-specific vulnerabilities — versus risks more common in the lowland desert communities that make up most of the county — could not be confirmed from available information. Local fire officials and emergency preparedness advocates would be worth consulting for perspective on gaps in the current plan.

Residents interested in shaping the 2027 MJHMP are encouraged to participate in the public outreach process. Check San Bernardino County's Office of Emergency Services website or the Fifth District Supervisor's office announcements for survey links, meeting dates, and comment deadlines as the planning process moves forward.