The first hour
- If you hear rumbling, cracking trees, or see a flow of mud or debris, move away from its path quickly. Go uphill to the side.
- Follow evacuation orders right away.
- If you can't get out, go to an upper floor away from the slope side.
The first day
- Stay away from the slide area. More slides can follow.
- Report broken utility lines.
- Watch for flooding, which often follows.
The first week and beyond
- Get a geotechnical expert to check the land before rebuilding.
- Replant damaged slopes to reduce future risk.
Warning signs
- New cracks in plaster, tile, brick or foundations
- Doors or windows that suddenly stick
- Tilting trees, fences, poles or walls
- Bulging ground at the base of a slope
- Water bursting from the ground in new places
- Sudden increase or decrease in creek water, or muddy water
Get ready now: checklist
Your checks save on this phone.
Common mistakes
- Sleeping through heavy rain in a high-risk area without alerts.
- Crossing a debris flow.
- Returning too soon.
Keeping kids calm
- Teach kids to tell an adult if they see new cracks or tilting trees and fences.
Gear that helps
- NOAA weather radio: my pick, Midland ER310
- Go-bag see my kit lists
- Headlamp: my pick, GearLight USB Rechargeable Headlamp, 2 Pack
- Sturdy boots
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