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CERT Unit 1: Disaster Preparedness

In this unit, you'll learn about:

  • The roles and responsibilities of individuals, communities, and CERT in disaster preparedness.
  • Hazards that may affect your community and their impact on people and infrastructure.
  • Building a family emergency plan and assembling disaster supplies.
  • Reducing disaster impacts through mitigation and preparedness.
  • How CERT supports communities before, during, and after disasters. 
Action Items 

☐ Sign up for SMC Alert to receive emergency notifications. 

☐ Identify your evacuation zone with Genasys Protect before an emergency occurs.

☐ Download the MyShake App and enable earthquake early warnings.

☐ Create a Family Emergency Plan using the provided template. (See Resources)

☐ Build or update your emergency supply kit using the provided checklist. (See Resources)

☐ Secure heavy furniture and water heaters to reduce earthquake hazards.

☐ Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On with your household.

☐ Save important emergency phone numbers in your phone. (See Resources)

☐ Choose an out-of-area emergency contact for your family.

☐ Talk with your neighbors about emergency preparedness and identify anyone who may need additional assistance during a disaster.

Resources 
Listos California Disaster Ready Guide (Updated).pdfReady.gov Emergency Supply List.pdfReady.gov Family Emergency Communication Plan.pdfPHS:SPCA Be Prepared! For Pets.pdf

 

Important Phone Numbers

City of Burlingame Description Phone Number
Police Department Emergency 911 or 650-692-0310
Police Department Non-Emergency 650-777-4100
  Fire Department Dispatch 911 or 650-368-1421
  Fire Department Administration 650-558-7600
  Public Works Main Line 650-558-7230
  Public Works Emergency/After-Hours 650-692-0604
Town of Hillsborough Description Phone Number
Police Department 911 or 650-375-7470
  Fire Department Dispatch 911 or 650-368-1421
  Fire Department Administration 650-558-7600
  Public Works Main Line 650-375-7444
  Public Works After-Hours (Police) 650-375-7470
City of Millbrae Description Phone Number
Sheriff's Office Emergency 911 or 650-697-1212
  Sheriff's Office Non-Emergency 650-259-2300
  Fire Department Dispatch 911 or 650-368-1421
  Fire Department Administration 650-558-7600
  Public Works Main Line 650-259-2339
  Public Works After-Hours 650-363-4951

Links

The Science of Earthquakes

Evacuation Warnings vs. Evacuation Orders

Ready.gov Kids