National Hurricane Preparedness week runs May 5–11

The National Weather Service has declared May 5–11 as Hurricane Preparedness Week. Wake County Emergency Management encourages residents to act now to prepare for hurricanes before the official start of hurricane season in June.

“It’s essential for the safety of our community that Wake County residents are ready before a storm arrives,” said Vice Chair Susan Evans of the Wake County Board of Commissioners. “By acting early to make a plan and prepare your home, you can help ensure that you, your family and your neighbors stay safe this hurricane season.”

Make a Plan

• Where will you go? Decide how your family will leave your home if necessary. Be sure to account for your pets when determining your route and destination.

• How will you contact family? Practice how you’ll evacuate, and plan how you will contact each other if you’re not together.

• What do you take with you? Gather important documents and put them in a safe, easily accessible location. Prepare a go-back with essential supplies like medications, chargers and hygiene products. Be sure to fill up or charge your vehicle, as well.

• What about your home? Take protective measures to mitigate damage to your home or business, such as trimming trees, covering windows and securing loose outdoor items. Make sure to review and update your homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies to ensure they include coverage for damage, natural disasters and flood insurance.

• What about after the storm? When creating your family’s plan, remember that many hazards may remain after a storm has passed. Be aware of damaged buildings and downed power lines, and never attempt to drive through flooded roads. Keep in mind that communication systems can be impacted by hurricanes.

Prepare a Kit
Assemble an emergency supplies kit that includes enough non-perishable food and water to last each family member three to seven days, and make sure everyone knows where it is.

Other essential items include:

• First-aid kit
• Hand sanitizer
• Weather radio and batteries
• Prescription medicines
• Sleeping bag or blankets
• Spare clothing
• Hygiene items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and deodorant
• Cash
• Pet supplies including food, water, bedding, leashes, muzzle and vaccination records
   

Stay Informed
Get alerted about weather emergencies in your area by signing up for ReadyWake alerts. This system enables Wake County Emergency Management to send targeted, time-sensitive messages in a way you choose – phone, email or text.

When a hurricane is imminent, stay up to date on the predicted impacts to your area. Check the official National Hurricane Center Forecast regularly to make sure you have the latest information.

You can also stay up to date on weather and evacuation information during an emergency by using a battery-powered weather radio.

“Hurricanes and severe storms are serious threats that can quickly create dangerous conditions in our area,” said Autumn Goheen, outreach, training and exercise manager with Wake County Emergency Management. “Planning and practicing your response will empower your family to remain calm and improve your chances of surviving and recovering if the worst does happen.”

More information on hurricanes and emergency preparedness is online at readywake.com and readync.gov.