Disaster Plan

If You Need Emergency Medical Assistance

Tie a white pillow slip, sheet, towel, or similar object on your mailbox or on a tree, which is visible from the street. In case of a disaster, Atherton officials will be checking all areas for this distress signal. The damage / injury information obtained will be transmitted by radio to the Police Department to request immediate assistance from the command headquarters. If you are not in need of assistance, use a slip, sheet, etc. of any color besides white to signify your well being.

Broadcasting Information

Disaster officials will be broadcasting instructions, damage reports, and other information over their car public address systems and on local radio broadcasting station KCEA (89.1 FM). It is possible that normal radio, TV, and telephone communications will be knocked out immediately following any major disaster. Therefore, you must have a battery operated FM radio on hand (many car radios are both AM/FM).

It is imperative that you stay home and turn on your radio in order to receive the information and instructions necessary for the safety of you and your family. Parents of school children will be notified of conditions at the local schools on the radio stations.

First Aid Instructions & Emergency Procedures

For detailed instructions and information regarding first aid, standard emergency procedures and preparation for emergencies see the front section of your telephone book.

Following are suggested items to have stored at home:

  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit
  • Wrench
  • Radio, flashlight, batteries, candles, matches
  • Water (at least one gallon per person)
  • Disinfectant
  • Dry or canned food, can opener
  • Alternate cooking source and utensils
  • Paper goods and plastic bags
  • Blankets, towels, change of clothes
  • Personal hygiene supplies

Earthquake Preparedness

The Town of Atherton's DRAFT Mitigation Strategy

Hazard mitigation is any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from hazards. Hazard mitigation is most effective when a long-term plan is developed before a disaster occurs.

The federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000) requires that cities, counties, and special districts have a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan to be eligible to receive hazard mitigation funds. The DRAFT Mitigation Strategy provided shows what programs the Town of Atherton currently has in place and what programs are in progress or being considered.