National Preparedness Month is an observance each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. The 2021 theme is “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.” Each week in September will focus on a weekly theme that you can do with your family. 

• Make a plan: Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area. Know how you will contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that is familiar and easy to find.
• Build a kit: Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for several days. Consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.  
• Sign up for alerts: Be prepared for when a natural disaster may strike. Start today by signing up for SMC Alert and Zonehaven. 
• Talk to your children about being prepared. If you have kids and unsure how to teach them about natural hazards, FEMA has prepared guides and activities for children.

The San Mateo County Alert system is a notification system used to contact subscribers during urgent or emergency situations. SMC Alert is free and the notifications can be sent to your email account, mobile electronic devices (tables, smartphones), and voice messages to landline phones. For more information, call 650-363-4790 for assistance.

To find more information about the risks in your area, visit the city’s emergency preparedness webpage and the county’s multijuridcation local hazard mitigation plan resources webpage.