Bring medications, identification, keys, phone/charger, water, and your go-bag. Arrange help for neighbors who need transport before an emergency. Do not delay departure to gather belongings.
Check county closures and Caltrans for highways. Confirm a primary and backup exit when conditions allow. Never assume Highway 9, 236, Bear Creek Road, or a private shortcut is safe; fire, fallen trees, slides, and flooding can block access.
Use the meeting point or shelter specified by officials. Keep an out-of-area family contact and a backup household meeting location ready. Text your status when safe; avoid unnecessary calls.
Do not pass a barricade, enter floodwater, or drive toward smoke/fire. Follow an official alternate route. If trapped or unable to leave safely, call 911 with your exact location, people needing help, and the hazard. Return only when officials allow it.
Emergency plan for this area
Keep a household plan and supplies ready before an alert arrives.
Register each address and phone with CruzAware. Keep a battery radio and phone power bank available.
Know two ways out, keep keys/shoes/medications together, and plan a family meeting point outside the valley.
Watch the river trend and official warnings. Avoid creek crossings, low bridges, and flooded roads; obey road closures.
After shaking, check for injuries, gas leaks and fire. Use flashlights, preserve phone battery, and call 911 for immediate danger.