- Get a Kit
In addition to the list of recommended items to include in a Disaster Supplies Kit, people with mental health and/or substance abuse problems may consider including the following items:
- Name and phone number of your local mental health professional(s), recovery sponsor, and/or other persons for support
- Name and phone number of your primary care physician and mental health and/or substance abuse professional care provider
- Copy of information about name of the prescribed medication, dosage, and where to receive the medication
- Make a Plan
- Meet with your family members, friends, and building manager to review community hazards and emergency plans.
- Choose an out-of-town contact. Your family members must know how to contact this person.
- Decide where to meet your household members if ever separated during an emergency.
- Know the signs and symptoms and common reactions to a disaster and develop and discuss coping skills with your family and friends who offer you support. Among the signs to look for over time are:
- Feeling tense, nervous, numb, or tired
- Having sleep problems
- Increased dependence on alcohol or drugs
- Being angry or irritable
- If you have ever experienced a problem with alcohol or other drugs:
- Practice how to communicate your needs
- Discuss the type of reactions you may have after a disaster
- Stay clear of anything that may trigger relapse
- Be Informed
- Learn your community’s response and evacuation plans. Download the Genasys Protect app. San Mateo County uses Genansys and SMC Alert to communicate evacuation information.
- Develop a communication plan with your family.
- Ask your local fire department, police department, or emergency management office about emergency special assistance programs.
- Ask your city or county how they will warn you of a disaster situation and provide information to you before, during, and after a disaster.
- Know which television and radio stations in your area broadcast the Emergency Alert System (EAS). In San Mateo County, those TV stations are KTVU TV-2, KRON TV-4, KPIX TV-5, KGO TV-7, and KNTV-11 (NBC Bay Area). EAS radio stations include: KCBS 740 AM and 106.9 FM, KQED 88.5 FM, and KCSM 91.1 FM.