Are You Prepared?

Below are some tips to better prepare you and your family for emergencies.

Prepare Your House

• Learn the art of earthquake proofing. 
• Know when and how to turn off your gas and water.
• Consider insurance for earthquake, flood, etc.  

Prepare Your Emergency Kits:

• Here's a list to start you off!
• Do you have at least 2-4 weeks’ worth of supplies at home?
• Car and office go-kit should have 1-day supplies, and a go-luggage should have 7-day supplies if you need to evacuate your home. Have a pair of sneakers at the office and car.
• Upcycle used backpacks and tennis shoes for your emergency kits. 
• Shop at your local discount store for basic supplies such as first aid kits, snacks, and water bottles.
• Pack cash in your emergency kits; especially small bills. Stores may not have change for you during emergencies and the credit card machines may be out of order.
• Consider your needs and those you love-- pets, medication, spare glasses, etc.
• Pack family photos. It’s comforting during a stressful time, but also very helpful if you need a photo of a family member who has gone missing.  Don’t forget pictures of your pets as well!
• Compile important documents in one folder. Documents may include: marriage/birth certificates, trusts, insurance, mortgage, medical documents, etc. Store it in your go-luggage.

Prepare Your Family: 

• Develop an emergency plan for your family. Get a template here.
• Consider the needs of your loved ones:
  • Pets
  • Seniors
  • People with a disability
• Familiarize yourself with your or your child’s school’s emergency plan.

Stay Informed: 

• Sign up for emergency notifications:
  • Downey Alerts-- Text downeyalerts to 888777 or register online.  
  • LA County's alerts. 
  • Other alerts in neighboring cities within LA County.
• Take FREE Community Emergency Response Training!
  • Downey’s CERT
  • Search for other CERT Trainings through Eventbrite.  
• Learn CPR and other helpful skills. 

Earthquake Tips

• Drop down; take cover under a desk/table and hold on during an earthquake. Stay away from windows, bookcases and other furniture that can fall on you. Avoid doorways.
• If outside, stay in an area that is clear from buildings, trees and powerlines.
• If you are in a vehicle, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
• Before an earthquake, look around your house for items that can fall over. Secure large furniture and appliances to the wall, or mount items that can break.
• Know how to turn off your gas and water to prevent a second emergency.

Other Hazard Scenarios

• Learn tips regarding various scenarios, such as active shooter, cybersecurity, floods, pandemic, and more.