CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As Hurricane Ian makes landfall in Florida, the American Red Cross is encouraging communities to prepare for possible impacts in our area, including flooding and high winds.
As communities in Florida and throughout the Southeast prepare for Hurricane Ian, it's a reminder to take preparedness steps here in North Carolina.
5 steps you can take today to prepare your family and community
- Create an evacuation plan. Plan what to do in case you are separated from your family during an emergency and if you have to evacuate.
- Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies, for infants or pets, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information.
- Include pets. Have an animal crate, supplies, medications, and food ready to go.
- Give blood. Blood can take up to three days to be tested, processed and made available for patients, so it's the blood already on the shelves that helps save lives in an emergency.
- Stay informed. Find out how local officials will contact you during a disaster and how you will get important information, such as evacuation orders.
