Hurricane season begins today and ends on November 30.
According to Gov. Bev Purdue, North Carolina will be ready in the event of a tropical storm or hurricane. In addition to encouraging North Carolina’s families to prepare, Perdue is working to ensure that the state is prepared to respond to a disaster. Last Thursday, Perdue, cabinet officials and state emergency management officials conducted a simulation exercise, rehearsing the roles and responsibilities of each agency during a disaster.
In addition, Perdue proclaimed this week “Hurricane Preparedness Week.” This year marks the 10th anniversary of the state’s costliest and most destructive storm. On September 16, 1999, Hurricane Floyd struck our state leaving behind 52 deaths and $6 billion in damages.
“In North Carolina we understand from experience the power and destruction of hurricanes. With hurricane season approaching, I ask us all to be prepared,” said Perdue. “I urge all families, businesses and local governments to check your emergency plans and emergency kits before any disaster strikes.”
North Carolina ranks second only to Florida in vulnerability to hurricanes. Citizens are urged to assemble emergency supply kits, then make and rehearse plans for where to go and what to do if a hurricane threatens the state.
Citizens are also encouraged to review and update their homeowners’ insurance policies to make sure they include coverage for accidental damage and natural disasters and, if necessary, flood insurance.
Families should have an emergency plan and emergency supplies kit ready to go at all times. The kit should contain enough non-perishable food and a gallon of water per person per day to last three to seven days. The kit should also include the following essentials:
People should stay informed during a storm by keeping a battery-powered radio for weather and evacuation information and should know evacuation routes in their community. They also need to heed the warnings of state and local officials and evacuate quickly when told to do so.
Citizens can evacuate their homes with small, domestic pets to specially designated pet-friendly shelters. Pet shelters will be equipped with pet crates, but people should bring feeding dishes, food and water, immunization papers and other pet supplies.
For more information on how to prepare for any type of emergency, visit www.ReadyNC.org.