• By Leigha Cordell
• Posted Wednesday, August 31, 2022

Forsyth County Promotes September as National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness and City of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Emergency Management officials are encouraging residents and businesses to be prepared for any disaster by reviewing their emergency plans and updating their emergency supplies kits.

“Being prepared begins with having an emergency plan and several days of supplies,” said August Vernon, Director of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Emergency Management. “Whether it is a manmade emergency or weather event we don’t always know what’s going to happen. However, we can be prepared by making a family emergency plan and practicing it, as well as having an up-to-date emergency supply kit. It’s important to remember you and your family may need to respond quickly in an emergency and preparedness is the key to having that flexibility.”

Vernon 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.

“As part of your plan, if you must evacuate, include staying with family, friends or at a hotel. A shelter should be a plan of last resort,” Vernon said. “You should also make sure your emergency supplies kit is up to date, the clothing in it is weather appropriate for any season and includes items needed for survival regardless of the emergency.”

Basic items that should be in an emergency kit are:

• Water - 1 gallon per person per day for 3 to 7 days
• Food – non-perishable and canned food supply for 3 to 7 days
• Mask or cloth face coverings for each family member
• 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 – 1 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

More information on overall emergency preparedness can be found online at www.ReadyForsyth.org or www.ReadyNC.org. Please take a moment to ‘LIKE’ and ‘SHARE’ ReadyForsyth on Facebook and Twitter to receive the most recently updated information. Check daily for updated information and tips about preparedness.