Be Aware and Prepare Alamance County!
September is North Carolina Preparedness Month

There are many weather-related emergencies that can impact Alamance County throughout the year from severe thunder storms, to lightning, tornadoes, flooding, landslides, or ice and snow storms that cause dangerous driving conditions.  This time of year also is prime season for hurricanes which, at some point, have impacted every county in North Carolina.

Emergencies do not even have to be weather-related. Public disturbances, chemical spills or fires could happen at any time.

Do you know what to do? Do you have a plan in place? The best way to protect your family is be aware and prepare.

That’s why Alamance County is observing September as North Carolina Preparedness Month – to encourage residents to become better prepared for any type of emergency. Taking four easy steps can help protect your family when an emergency strikes: 1) make a plan, 2) discuss and practice your plan with your family, 3) build an emergency supplies kit, and 4) stay informed.

Making a plan only takes a few minutes. Just record what you need to do, where to go and how to get in touch with family members. Include any special considerations for older adults, people with functional needs and/or pets. Also include the location of your emergency kit. Mold your plan to your family’s needs and discuss it with the entire family. Be sure to include phone numbers of each family member, a number for a pre-assigned out-of-state contact who can keep track of family members, and an ‘in case of emergency’ contact for emergency personnel to use. Also, choose a meeting place where all family members can meet during emergencies.

Kudos to you if you already have a plan! Take the time to review and update it, discuss it with your family and practice it. Don’t wait for an emergency to figure out what you need to do.

An emergency supplies kit should contain enough non-perishable food and bottled water (1 gallon per person per day) to last three to seven days. Kits also should include: copies of insurance papers and identification, first aid kit, weather radio and batteries, prescription medicines, bedding, weather-appropriate clothing, hygiene items, cash, and supplies for any household pets. A complete list of kit items can be found at www.ReadyNC.org.

Stay informed by learning about the risks in your area, such as if you live in low-lying or floodplain area. Learn what to do before, during and after different types of emergencies. And listen to local media when severe weather threatens.

Find more information on emergency preparedness at  www.ReadyNC.org. Alamance County emergency officials also urge residents to get the free ReadyNC mobile app, which provides real-time weather and traffic conditions for all parts of North Carolina.

Remember: Be Aware and Prepare to keep your family safe.

 

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