For The San Diego Union-Tribune
In preparation for the incoming storm from Hurricane Hilary, residents fill sandbags at the Bonita-Sunnyside Fire Protection District on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023. 
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.
Originally Published:
