Full Notification

The July 4th and 5th earthquakes centered near Ridgecrest in Southern California were felt throughout the state. They are an important reminder that as California residents, we all live in earthquake country, and there are actions we can take to prepare today.

First, take the time now to practice what to do when earthquake shaking starts: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. If you are in bed, stay in bed and put a pillow over your head for protection. To learn what to do in other locations, such as in a car or in a theater, visit the Earthquake Country Alliance website.

Next, prepare your household for an earthquake or other disaster.  If you are receiving this message, you have already taken an important first step to receive the Town’s emergency alerts. You should also sign up with the County’s AlertSCC notification system.  Then, create a disaster plan and kit for your household and learn about training opportunities here in Los Altos Hills.

Make a Plan

Create a disaster plan for your family so that you know what you will do and how you will communicate in an emergency. Your plan should include family members with disabilities, children and pets.  Pick two places to meet: right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire, and outside your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Ask a friend or family member who lives in a different state to be your "Out-of-State contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. To keep track of your loved ones after an earthquake, everyone can reach out to that Out-Of-State contact via a phone call or text message and tell the Out-Of-State contact their location and status.

Make a Kit

Create a disaster kit for your household with water, food, first aid and other supplies and equipment you might need. Keep in mind any special items that are needed for older adult family members, children, and even your pets.  Once disaster hits, you won't have time to shop or search for supplies. If you have gathered supplies in advance, your family can be ready to shelter-in-place, even if utilities are down. You should plan for a minimum of 72 hours to be without services. A twelve month emergency preparedness calendar may be found here. 

The more that people take these actions, the more that you, your neighborhood and the Town will be prepared and safe during a major earthquake.

Learn more about all these resources at the Town’s Safety Resources Library.