Options Database

Develop or update the jurisdiction's landslide study to reflect current and projected climate conditions.

Develop voluntary measures and incentives, such as a certification program for clean air buildings, to encourage safe indoor air in public buildings, schools and businesses.

Develop a watershed plan to guide infrastructure and improvement projects. Watershed plans can influence zoning and prompt infrastructure evaluations and stream restoration.

Direct residents to geographic information system (GIS) hazard mapping online to better understand their risks.

Directly fund or work with insurance companies and lenders to identify financial incentives for facilities managers to install wall components, roof coverings, sheathing, flashing, skylights, roof and attic vents, eaves and gutters that conform to ignition-resistant construction standards.

Discourage new construction in flood-prone areas

Discourage new public projects in hazard-prone areas such as floodplains.

Discourage public water distribution and treatment structures in hazard-prone areas and use 3D visualization (GIS) to help convey the information.

Discourage residential development within the flood zone.

Distribute or build on existing education programs related to asthma. Add information on the health risks from wildfire smoke, changing allergy seasons, extreme heat and air quality. Focus on how to limit exposure to sensitive populations and why it matters.

Distribute educational materials on water conservation measures and the importance of conserving water use. For example, encourage property owners to fix leaks. Increasing water use efficiency can prevent or alleviate drought impacts.

Diversify food supply chains to prepare for potential impacts from changing seasons and extreme events. For example, support local food production by promoting new technologies, encouraging farmers to take advantage of an extended growing season and creating a market for local food.

Diversify the fuel sources used by essential fleet vehicles to allow for travel in the event of a long interruption in the fuel supply. Examples include electricity, natural gas, propane and ethanol. Or create a protocol by which alternative-fueled vehicles used for non-essential functions can be called into service by essential personnel in the event of an emergency.

Diversify the fuel supply for generators.

Document the hydrologic value of regional lands. Protect and invest in policies and actions that preserve the hydrological value of watersheds.

Draft a community-level emergency response plan if one doesn't exist.

During extreme heat and severe winter weather, organize community check-ins on elderly and sensitive populations. Program can be run at the neighborhood level through buddy systems where neighbors are aware of and check on those at risk of health impacts.

Educate about practices that create and enhance pollinator habit, wildlife habitat and biodiversity.

Educate about the benefits of native species to decrease the use of invasive species.

Educate community members about the climate risks to habitats and biodiversity. Include information on the reasons to safeguard these natural systems.