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Emergency Management
Be Aware and Prepare
Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30 each year, but August and September mark the peak of hurricane season in North Carolina. Nearly a month before the actual season began this year, North Carolina experienced Tropical Storm Ana in May that brought rain and wind but otherwise left the state unscathed. You know that hurricanes cannot be taken lightly whether you live in or visit North Carolina.
Hurricanes and tropical storms are only one of many weather-related disasters that target this state. Ask yourself this: do you know what to do during a lightning storm or tornado? A snow or ice storm? Landslide? Public disturbance? If you don't…keep reading to find out.
This September is North Carolina Preparedness Month. It is a time to for the state's residents to become better prepared for any type of emergency. While different storms require different actions (“Turn around, don't drown” during floods, and “Drop. Cover. And Hold” for earthquakes) developing emergency plans and kits can help you fare better during any type of disaster. It's simple steps – having and practicing a plan, building an emergency supplies kit, and talking about it with your family – that are key to being prepared when an emergency strikes.
If you haven't already made a plan, take a few minutes to do so. It's simple. Just record what you need to do, where to go and how to get in touch with your family members. Your plan should list any special considerations for older adults, people with functional needs and/or pets, and the location of your emergency supply kit. Mold your plan to your family's needs and discuss it with every member in the house.
You may not always be in the same place when an emergency hits. That's why it is important to create a plan that contains phone numbers of each family member, a number for a pre-assigned out-of-state contact person who can keep track of family members, and an ‘in case of emergency' contact for emergency personnel to use. Be sure to identify a meeting place where all family members can meet in case of an emergency. If you are not together, having a designated spot can reassure family members of one another's safety.
An emergency supplies kit should contain enough non-perishable food and bottles water (1 gallon per person per day) to last three to seven days. Kits should include: copies of insurance papers and identification, first aid kit, weather radio and batteries, prescription medicines, bedding, weather-appropriate clothing, hygiene items, cash, and supplies for any household pets. A complete list of kit items can be found at www.ReadyNC.org.
Planning ahead of time will help you remain calm, think clearly and react accordingly.
Mike Sprayberry
Director
Risk Management Portal
All Hazard Incident Management Teams
Experienced and qualified emergency management teams (referred to as AHIMTs) can be deployed to respond to any type of emergency or hazard in various communities across the state. Team members pre-qualify for positions based on demonstrated experience and an approved set of standards. To participate in an AHIMT, complete and submit the application below.
AHIMT Qualification Guide - June 2015 (pdf)
AHIMT Credentialing Application
AHIMT FAQs
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« this page last modified 12/03/15 »