As students return to school and the peak of hurricane season arrives, Gov. Roy Cooper declared September as North Carolina Preparedness Month to encourage individuals, families, schools and businesses to review their emergency plans and update their emergency supply kits.

“North Carolinians are resilient and have endured hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, mudslides, wildfires, winter storms and more,” Cooper said. “We know that planning and preparation pay off when a disaster strikes. Having simple emergency plans and basic supplies in place will help you survive storms and recover faster.”

The governor’s declaration coincides with National Preparedness Month, sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in which all Americans are encouraged prepare for all types of emergencies.

In 2017, North Carolina experienced 30 tornadoes, 548 severe thunderstorms with high winds, 102 hailstorms, 104 flood events and winter storms that caused power outages and dangerous driving conditions.

This May brought torrential rains to western North Carolina that claimed the lives of five people — including three in Polk County — and caused mudslides and washed out roads and bridges. The governor is continuing to seek help for 13 western counties, and is appealing FEMA’s denial of a federal disaster declaration.

Natural disasters can strike at any time, so it is critical that everyone know what to do and where to go when danger threatens.

Flooding is often the greatest threat to life and property when disaster strikes, and any place it rains can experience flooding. Emergency management experts recommend considering getting flood insurance, even for homes that are not in the flood plain.

“A little preparation and planning now can pay big dividends when disaster strikes,” said Public Safety Secretary Erik A. Hooks. “Have a plan for your family, make sure everyone knows the plan and gather basic supplies in your emergency kit.”

For more information, people may visit ReadyNC.org or download the free ReadyNC app, which features real time weather, traffic and shelter information. 

– Submitted article