Preparing for the Predicted 2015/16 El Niño

• Do you live in a flood zone? Find out here: CLICK HERE
• Do you have flood insurance? Check insurance policies for adequate coverage. Most policies do not cover damage due to flooding.  Plan ahead, there is typically a 30 day waiting period before policies go into effect.  Make copies of all important documents; make sure originals are stored safely somewhere outside of your home (like a safe deposit box).
• Flood insurance info: CLICK HERE

See water? “Turn Around Don’t Drown“, a message from the National Weather Service.
Tips to prepare you and your home for evacuation: CLICK HERE

Check your property

• Clear drains, rain gutters and downspouts of debris.
• Trim trees and landscaping as needed to ensure that branches and limbs are clear of your structure and clear from overhead power lines (Contact Parks Maintenance if trees have grown over or around power lines on your property).
• Inspect your roof for any signs of damage or needed repairs. Make arrangements for the repairs before water starts to leak inside your property.
• Stabilize slopes on your property to prevent mud and landslides.
• Secure outdoor furniture and other loose items from causing damage during periods of heavy winds.

Use sand bags in areas known for flooding around your property

• Residents can receive up to 10 filled or empty sand bags, free of charge courtesy of our Public Works Department.
• Prior to a storm (generally 48 hours before rainfall) and during regular business hours, sand bags are available to residents, with proof of residency, on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Sand bags can be picked up at the Public Works City Corporation Yard located at 550 N. Canal Street.
• Call (650) 829-3837 for information on sand bag distribution availability, days and hours.

Make plans

• Make an emergency plan for your family and build a disaster supply kit. Remember that local phone lines may be busy during a disaster, so designate a family member to contact outside of the area.
• Stock up on food, water and medicine so you don’t have to go out during the storms. This El Niño season is predicted to bring periods of long, back-to-back storms that may make it difficult to run your everyday errands.
• Don’t forget about your pet’s needs. Stock up on their food and medicine too and make sure their ID tags are up to date.
• Check on your elderly neighbors to see if they need any assistance with storm preparations.