FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Cumberland County Emergency Services is shining a spotlight on the importance of readiness this September, which has been officially designated as Emergency Preparedness Month. Residents, schools, and businesses are encouraged to review emergency plans and refresh supply kits now.

“Whether it’s a natural event, such as severe weather, or an unplanned situation, preparedness starts at home,” said Interim Emergency Services Director Garry Crumpler. “This is a great opportunity for families to sit down, talk through their plans, and practice them together. Deciding ahead of time where to meet, who to call, and what to do if an evacuation is needed can make all the difference.”

How to Prepare

• Create or update a household emergency plan: Establish meeting points, communication methods, evacuation routes, and ways to stay connected.

• Build or refresh an emergency supply kit: Aim for three to seven days of supplies to include water, food, medication, and essential items.

• Include critical extras: Ensure the kit includes weather-appropriate clothing, updated batteries, and necessities for infants, seniors, and pets.

• Practice the plan: Role-play different scenarios to help everyone feel confident and safe.

Recommended Emergency Kit Essentials

• Water: one gallon per person per day

• Non-perishable foods and a manual can opener

• Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio, NOAA Weather Radio, and extra batteries

• Cell phones, chargers

• First aid kit and manual

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• Wrench or pliers for utility shutoffs

• Blankets or sleeping bags

• Prescription medications, eyeglasses, hearing aids

• Seasonal clothing and sturdy shoes

• Hygiene items: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, feminine supplies

• Extra house and car keys

• Important documents (insurance, IDs, bank info)

• Fire extinguisher

• Cash and coins

• Books, cards, or games to comfort and entertain

Visit ReadyNC.gov for steps, checklists, and online resources.

Cumberland County residents are encouraged to sign up for the County’s emergency notification system, Cumberland Alerts. Residents can visit the County’s website to learn more and register. The alert system sends time-sensitive emergency information to a user’s phone via call or text message, and to a registered email address. Users can select a preferred communication method. Cumberland Alerts also sends critical information for non-weather emergencies such as evacuations and protective actions.

For more information about Cumberland County, visit cumberlandcountync.gov, download the MyCCNCGov app in the Apple or Google Play app stores, or follow the County on social media at CCNCGov.