How to Prepare Your Family for a Storm

These guidelines follow the recommendations of PG&E, the Governor's Office of Emergency Services and the Public Works Agency of Oakland, California.

Things You'll Need

• Safe-deposit Boxes
• Batteries
• Portable Radios
• Bow Rakes
• Brooms
• Garden Stakes
• Hay Or Straw
• Plastic Sheeting
• Shovels
• First Aid Kits
• Gasoline
• Lumber
• Storm Insurance
• Burlap
• Sandbags
• Flashlights

Instructions

1. Clear your storm drains. Unclog gutters using a rake, broom or shovel so water cannot accumulate and flood.

2. Prevent mudflows and landslides, if you live on a soil slope, by punching straw into the soil with a shovel or tying burlap down with stakes.

3. Store water and food and prepare an emergency kit that includes cash, a first aid kit, portable radio, flashlight and extra batteries.

4. Keep waterproofing and emergency building materials readily available, such as sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber.

5. Be ready to gather personal belongings and leave immediately. Keep car fueled and store important documents and valuables in a safety deposit box.

6. Map a route for traveling safely from your home, school or work to higher ground.

7. Consider purchasing storm insurance if you are not already covered.