Preparation Tips a Good Idea for All NC Residents, Regardless of Location
Released by Tameka Kenan-Norman, City of Rocky Mount NC
Emergency Management officials from Rocky Mount urge residents to plan now for hurricane season by updating their emergency plans and supply kits. Hurricane season officially begins June 1 and runs through November, and the perfect time to plan is May 15-21, 2016, during National Hurricane Preparedness Week.
“It only takes one tropical storm to cause major damage to your home and your community,” said Division Chief Donnie Daniels of the Rocky Mount Fire Department.
Daniels, who also serves as the city’s Emergency Management coordinator, stated “Hurricanes and tropical storms can cause severe winds, flooding and property damage here in Rocky Mount. While no part of the state is immune to hurricanes and tropical storms, there are ways to plan ahead.”
“We are fortunate that storm impacts for our area have been minimal over the past several years. However, history has proven that our area is vulnerable and we can be severely impacted by the effects of these storms,” said Daniels.
While the hurricane season officially begins in June, traditionally mid-August to mid-October is the most active time for hurricanes in NC. To encourage residents to actively plan in advance, Governor Pat McCrory proclaimed May 15 to May 21 as North Carolina Hurricane Preparedness Week.
“It’s important to act now before storms strike,” said Daniels. “Take the time now to discuss your emergency plan and assemble a supply kit so that you will be better prepared to survive a storm and recover from it.”
Daniels urged families, businesses and local governments to assemble emergency supply kits, then make and rehearse plans for what to do if a hurricane threatens the area.
“Don’t wait; it’s critical to prepare before a storm hits,” Daniels said. “During those first few days, you may be on your own until responders can reach you or until essential utilities can be restored.”
An emergency supply kit should contain enough non-perishable food and a gallon of water per person, per day to last three to seven days. Other essential items include:
- Copies of insurance papers and identification sealed in a watertight plastic bag
- First-aid kit
- Weather radio and batteries
- Supply of prescription medicines
- Sleeping bag or blankets
- Changes of clothes
- Hygiene items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and deodorant
- Cash or checkbook
- Pet supplies including food, water, leashes, bedding, muzzle and vaccination records
- A plan for those under your care who are unable to help themselves
Residents should review and update their insurance policies to make sure they include coverage for accidental damage, natural disasters and, if necessary, flood insurance.
More information on hurricanes and overall emergency preparedness can be found online at www.ReadyNC.org. Emergency officials encourage residents to download the free ReadyNC mobile app.
Tools for helping to create emergency plans and additional emergency management resources can be found online or by contacting Daniels via email or calling 252.972.1378.
