Summer ushers in the season of storms, when a monsoon may start quickly and lead to downed power lines and trees, power outages and flooded streets in a matter of minutes.

The elderly and other residents who are homebound are among the most vulnerable during the monsoon. City of Mesa wants to remind you to check on those living near you to make sure they stay safe, according to a release.

“Older adults and others needing assistance should be of great concern to all of us during a monsoon and neighbors can be the best first line of defense,” Mesa Fire Chief Mary Cameli said in the release. “We encourage neighbors to get to know and watch out for the older adults in your area, and to protect yourself as well during severe storms.”

You can help your older and homebound neighbors by making sure they have sandbags and other supplies available. Also, check to see if they have a backup source for power for medical equipment requiring it or a way to keep refrigerated prescriptions cool during a power outage.

All Mesa residents are encouraged to have an evacuation plan for the most severe instances, and have a disaster kit including water, non-perishable foods, flashlights, batteries, medications and first aid supplies. You should also have a disaster kit for your pets and stay updated on current weather forecasts.

Sand and empty bags are available at the following locations (bring your own shovel):

• Fire Station 202, 830 S. Stapley Drive.
• Fire Station 204, 1426 S. Extension Road.
• Fire Station 205, 730 S. Greenfield Road.
• Fire Station 209, 7035 E. Southern Ave.
• Fire Station 212, 2430 E. Ellsworth Road.

The Mesa Transportation Department has pre-filled sandbags at the following locations:

• Transportation Building, 300 E. Sixth St.
• East Mesa Service Center, 6935 E. Decatur St.

For additional storm preparation information and a complete list of contact numbers, go to mesaaz.gov/storm.

The city of Mesa also uses Twitter and Facebook to provide updates related to emergency situations. Follow the city on Twitter @cityofmesa and on Facebook at @CityofMesa.