From alerts to sandbags, how to prepare for Hilary

As Hilary heads closer to Southern California, here are some things you can do to prepare:

• Sign up for emergency alerts at readysandiego.org/alertsandiego.
• Check on unsheltered neighbors, and bring your pets indoors.
• Secure outdoor furniture, potted plants, garbage cans and the like, and trim trees that could fall and hit your home.
• Clean storm drains and gutters.
• Stockpile sandbags. Find them at these locations in the city of San Diego, other cities and unincorporated areas.
• Locate your utility shutoffs in case you need them.
• Prepare for long power outages. Charge everything in case you lose power. If you have a generator you plan to use in the event of a power outage, know how to operate it safely.
• Gather food, water and medicine. Fill jugs or pots with water, and fill necessary prescriptions.
• Be prepared to evacuate immediately. Know where you will go and know your evacuation route.
• Avoid beaches, which could be vulnerable to storm surge and powerful currents, and coastal bluffs, which could be vulnerable to collapse.
• Avoid driving during heavy rains. If you must, drive more slowly, use your headlights, keep extra distance and never drive into standing water flooding a roadway.
• Report downed power lines or gas emergencies to San Diego Gas & Electric at (800) 411-7343.