We encourage everyone who lives, works, or visits in Alameda County to sign up for AC Alert, the Alameda County emergency notification system. Signing up will allow you receive emergency and topical information about flooding, earthquakes, fires and other emergencies occurring in your area.

Learn about how to prepare for disasters, make emergency plans, and get involved with community programs on our new disaster preparedness website ReadyAlbany.org.

Prepare Yourself & Family

The following items are recommended for inclusion in your basic disaster supplies kit:

• Three-day supply of nonperishable food (minimum)
• Three-day supply of water - one gallon per person, per day (minimum
• Portable battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual
• Sanitation and hygiene items (moist towelettes and toilet paper)
• Matches and waterproof container
• Whistle
• Extra clothing
• Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including can opener
• Photocopies of credit and identification cards
• Cash and coins
• Special needs items, such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solution, and hearing aid batteries
• Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers
• Other items to meet your unique family needs
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket (per person)

Maintaining You Disaster Supplies Kit

Just as important as putting your supplies together is maintaining them so they are safe to use when needed. Here are some tips to keep you supplies ready and in good condition:

• Keep canned foods in a dry place  where the temperature is cool
• Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers to protect from pests and extend its shelf life
• Throw out any canned good that becomes swollen, dented, or corroded
• Use foods before they expire, and replace them with fresh supplies
• Place new items at the back of the storage area and older items in the front
• Change stored food and water supplies every six months. Be sure to write the current date on all containers
• Rethink your needs every year and update your kit as your family needs change
• Keep items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as an unused trash can, camping backpack, or duffel bag

Kit Locations

Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work, and vehicles.