What You Can Do to Prepare for Disaster

Register for SMCAlert

SMCAlert will help you stay informed with immediate information by signing up to receive emergency alerts via text, phone, or email from the San Mateo County Office of Emergency Services.

Prepare an Emergency/Evacuation Plan & Discuss With Your Family

Learn the safest route to high, safe ground if you have to evacuate in a hurry. Decide on a place where your family can meet during and after a disaster strikes.

Prepare Emergency Supplies

Experts say that families need to be prepared to be self-reliant (that is, able to get along without any outside services or assistance) for 72 hours. Ideally prepare for full seven days.

Supply Information   

Know How to Disable Utilities

Learn how to shut off your gas from the Gas Safety Tips page. If you smell natural gas, see downed power lines, or suspect another power-related emergency situation, call 9-1-1 and then call PG&E at 800-743-5000. Never touch a downed power line. Do not touch any electrical equipment

Other Resources:

Prepare emergency supplies to last 72 hours, including non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, a manual can opener, and a battery-operated radio

Create an emergency evacuation plan for your family

To prevent them from falling during an earthquake, secure heavy items like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls

If your area is prone to flooding and heavy rain is predicted, fill up sand bags at the City fill in station and use them to protect your property. Bags and sand for you to fill is at the Historic Train Depot below Johnston House 110 Higgins Canyon Road

During heavy rain, prevent backups and localized flooding in your neighborhood by helping to keep storm drains in your neighborhood clear. Call Half Moon Bay Public Works Maintenance at 650.726.7177 if you see significant blockages and water backups (after 5pm, call the Sheriff’s dispatch at 650.726.8286) 

For downed trees, clogged storm drains, and other storm-related issues, please call the Sheriff’s non-emergency dispatch line at 650-363-4911. Of course, any life threatening issues should be reported to 9-1-1.