September is Preparedness Month, and Alexander County Emergency Management officials are urging residents and businesses to prepare for any potential disaster by reviewing their emergency plans and updating their emergency supply kits.
“Regardless of whether it’s a manmade emergency or a natural disaster, everyone needs to be prepared,” said Daniel Fox, Alexander County Emergency Management Coordinator. “Start by discussing an emergency plan with your family and practicing it. Having a solid plan will enhance your family’s chances of surviving a disaster. Make sure to include a designated place to go if evacuation is necessary, such as staying with family, friends, or at a hotel. Your plan should also be adaptable, allowing for quick responses during emergencies.”
Fox encourages residents, schools, and business owners to develop and routinely practice an emergency plan with household members, staff, or employees. This plan should encompass details such as meeting locations, communication methods, evacuation strategies, how to care for pets, and ways to inform employees after an emergency.
“You should also maintain an up-to-date emergency supply to ensure that you and your loved ones can survive for three to seven days without outside assistance,” Fox added. “Include weather-appropriate clothing in your emergency supply kit, and ensure everything is current, such as fresh batteries. Check that any food is still safe to consume and include essential survival items regardless of the type of emergency.”
Basic items that should be included in an emergency kit:
• Water: 1 gallon per person per day for 3 to 7 days
• Food: Non-perishable and canned food supply for 3 to 7 days
• Hand sanitizer, sanitizing wipes
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries
• Cell phone with charger
• First aid kit and first aid manual
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Manual can opener for food
• Wrench or pliers to turn off water
• Blanket or sleeping bag (1 per person)
• Prescription medications, glasses, and hearing aids
• Seasonal change of clothing, including sturdy shoes
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and feminine supplies
• Extra house and car keys
• Important documents: insurance policies, copy of driver’s license, Social Security card, bank account records
• Fire extinguisher
• Cash and coins
• Books, games, or cards
Alexander County utilizes the CodeRed emergency alert notification system. Residents are encouraged to register to receive important alerts. Learn more at alexandercountync.gov/codered.
For help with writing a plan, building an emergency kit, and more emergency preparedness information, visit ReadyNC.gov.
