Envision Ridgefield 2045 - Climate Survey
We conducted a survey to understand how natural hazards have affected our community in Ridgefield and to gather ideas on how we can better prepare for future climate-related events. Here are the key findings from the survey:
Natural Hazards:
Most common natural hazards included: Extreme heat, wildfire or smoke, severe storms, and extreme cold or wind chill.
Typical impacts from natural hazards included: Missed work or school, lost power or internet, transportation disruptions, decrease in outdoor activities, and damage to homes or property.
Preparation and Response:
About 70% of respondents feel somewhat prepared to well-prepared to deal with the impacts of natural hazards.
Typical resources that helped prepare for past events included: Emergency alerts, survival kits, and help from family or friends.
Resources to prepare for future events include: Community alerts, better road and sidewalk maintenance, community disaster plans, and disaster training or information.
Vulnerable Groups and Areas:
Groups of people identified as most vulnerable to natural hazards include: Elderly, sick, disabled, children, pregnant women, low income, houseless, and outdoor workers.
Areas and assets identified as most vulnerable to natural hazards include: Wildlife and wooded areas, houses, care facilities, schools (due to lack of air conditioning), local food systems, and family pets.
Ideas for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
More public transportation.
More bike lanes, safe sidewalks, and connected neighborhoods.
Planting and preserving trees.
Carpooling and ridesharing.
Using electric vehicles.
Urban forestry programs.
Protecting natural habitats.
EV and solar-ready buildings.
Higher density in areas with shops and services.
More parks and open spaces.
These findings will help shape our community's climate goals and policies, ensuring Ridgefield is better prepared for future natural hazards and more resilient overall.