Fayetteville Today

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - As the hurricane season approaches, the City of Fayetteville Emergency Management is urging residents to update their emergency plans and supply kits. The hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.

The National Weather Service has designated May 5-11 as Hurricane Preparedness Week in North Carolina, aiming to promote readiness among residents.

“The City of Fayetteville is now recognized as a Weather Ready Nation Ambassador through the National Weather Service,” stated Laura Smith, Fayetteville Emergency Management Coordinator. “This ambassadorship solidifies our dedication to ensuring not only Fayetteville residents remain in a constant state of preparedness, but also City employees.”

Residents can easily create an emergency plan by visiting ReadyNC.gov and downloading a plan template. It's essential for families to practice their emergency plans so everyone knows where to go and who to contact when disaster strikes.

“Protecting your family during a disaster such as a hurricane or severe weather means having an emergency plan and kit, which will provide for you and your loved ones for up to 72 hours or three days,” Smith added. “Having a plan and being prepared improves your chances of surviving and recovering from the damage of severe weather.”

Residents are advised to complete all preparations before a storm’s arrival. This includes securing property, clearing storm drains, cutting tree limbs, locking shutters in place, and assembling an emergency kit. The most important thing is to avoid venturing out during a storm or its immediate aftermath.

Emergency management recommends individuals stay put until it is safe. If power loss necessitates using a backup generator, it should be operated outside the house due to carbon monoxide risks in enclosed environments. Once it's safe to venture out again, extreme caution should be exercised on roads, especially near bodies of water. The phrase "Turn Around, Don’t Drown" emphasizes that hidden dangers may lurk beneath floodwaters.

For more information about hurricanes and overall emergency preparedness, visit ReadyNC.gov. For more about the Fayetteville Emergency Management Division or ideas for an emergency preparation kit, visit fayettevillenc.gov/emergencymanagement.