September is Preparedness Month in North Carolina and Columbus County Emergency Management officials are encouraging residents and businesses to be prepared for any disaster by reviewing their emergency plans and updating their emergency supply kits.
“Regardless of whether it’s a manmade emergency or a weather event, everyone needs to be prepared.” said David Ransom, Columbus County Emergency Manager. “You should begin by talking with your family to create an emergency plan and practice it. A plan will improve the chances of your family surviving a disaster. It’s important to include a place to go in your plan should you need to evacuate, such as staying with family, friends or at a hotel. The plan should also be flexible so you can respond quickly in an emergency.”
Columbus County Emergency Management encourages residents, schools and business owners to make an emergency plan and practice it routinely with other household members, staff or employees. The plan should include details about where to meet, how to get in touch with one another, evacuation plans, what to do with pets and how to notify employees after an emergency.
“You should also have an up-to-date emergency supply to help you and your loved ones survive for three to seven days without assistance,” Teresa Smith of Columbus County Emergency Management said. “Be sure to have weather appropriate clothing in your emergency supply kit, and that everything is up to date, such as fresh batteries. Check to be sure any food is still good and include items needed for survival regardless of the emergency.”
Basic items that should be in an emergency kit are:
- Water – one gallon per person per day for three to seven days
- Food – non-perishable and canned food supply for three to seven days
- Hand sanitizer
- Sanitizing wipes
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio with extra batteries
- Cell phone with charger
- First aid kit and first aid book
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Manual can opener for food
- Wrench or pliers to turn off water
- Blanket or sleeping bag – one per person
- Prescription medications, glasses and hearing aids
- Seasonal change of clothing, including sturdy shoes
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, 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 change
- Books, games or cards
For help with writing a plan, building an emergency kit, and more emergency preparedness information visit ReadyNC.gov or call Columbus County Emergency Management 910.640.6610 ext. 534 for additional assistance.
