Cumberland County Emergency Services is joining with the National Weather Service and observing Hurricane Preparedness Week which is May 9-15.
The 2021 hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30 with the peak season around mid-August. Emergency Services is encouraging residents to create a written evacuation plan, help your neighbors collect supplies before a storm, review and update insurance policies, make a list of items to replenish hurricane emergency supplies and start thinking about how to prepare your home for the upcoming hurricane season.
“Remember flood insurance is not a part of most policies and must be obtained separately,” said Emergency Services Director Gene Booth. “Adding personal protective equipment or PPE is essential during a pandemic. Also, remember to include pets as part of your disaster planning.”
Essential Items Needed
Build an emergency supply kit and create a family emergency plan. Kits should include items that your family may need during and after an emergency. Plan for enough water, food and supplies for three to seven days for each person and pet. Be sure to include additional supplies to stay healthy during the pandemic: face coverings, hand sanitizer and cleaning products.
Visit readync.org to learn more about creating a family emergency plan and building your emergency supplies kit.
Taking Shelter During a Hurricane
Staying at an emergency shelter should be your last resort. Plan now to stay with family or friends at a safe place, or at a hotel. If you go to a shelter, you will be required to wear a face mask to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Be prepared to bring your own bedding if cots are not available.
Staying up to Date
Get information about severe incidents by signing up for our Cumberland Alerts notification system. The Cumberland Alerts system enables us to provide you with critical information related to incidents such as severe weather, evacuations, protective actions, etc. You will receive time-sensitive messages wherever you specify, such as your home, mobile or business phones, email address, text messages and more. Sign-up now by visiting co.cumberland.nc.us/alerts.
A comprehensive Hurricane Guide is available from Readync.org in English and Spanish.