Most of what keeps people safe in a disaster happens before it: a plan, a few supplies, a way to get alerts, and neighbors who know each other. This page collects trusted resources to start with. More coming.

Start with the Disaster Ready Guide

Albany CERT has been distributing the free Listos California Disaster Ready Guide to Albany households: step-by-step instructions, checklists, and worksheets for earthquakes, fires, power outages, and more. We usually have printed English copies at CERT events.

Get the guide, in 16 languages →

Get emergency alerts

• AC Alert: Alameda County’s emergency alerts, which the City of Albany uses. Sign up · Help signing up
• National Weather Service, Bay Area: forecasts and warnings at weather.gov/mtr.
• Have more than one way to hear an alert: phone, radio, a neighbor.

Make a plan and a kit

• Make a family emergency plan (Ready.gov): where to meet, who to call, what each person does.
• Build a supply kit (Ready.gov): start with water, food, medications, a flashlight, and a battery phone charger.
• Listos California and the American Red Cross have more checklists.

Winter storms and El Niño

• The National Weather Service’s El Niño in California guide (English and Spanish).
• The City’s Storm Response & Resources page: where to get sandbags and sand, and what to avoid during a storm.
• If you can do it safely, clear leaves off the storm drain nearest your home before a storm. To report flooding or a clogged drain, see the City’s stormwater page.
• Flooded road? Turn around, don’t drown. Water is often deeper and faster than it looks.
• Downed power line: assume it’s live. Stay away, call 911, then PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.

Power outages

• PG&E outage preparedness: planning for outages, and help for people who rely on powered medical devices.

Earthquakes

• Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety (Earthquake Country Alliance).
• Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On with the Great California ShakeOut drill each October.

Take the next step

• Get trained: CERT training teaches disaster skills for helping your family and neighbors.
• Know your neighbors: see Block Captains.
• Stay in touch: join the Albany CERT email list at groups.io/g/albanycert.