Severe Weather Preparedness

During hurricane season and year round, please be prepared for severe weather. These tips help our community stay prepared for any weather emergency.

Orange County Emergency Services and area public safety partners have been preparing for Hurricane Irma and working through the pre-storm checklist. Resources are on stand-by and channels of communication between agencies are open.

Orange County residents are encouraged to prepare for the possibility of a disruption of services due to the storm. Also, during the storm, emergency response may be delayed due to downed trees, powerlines and flooded roads. Prepare prior to a weather crisis to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours at home or work. Learn more about preparedness and see a basic supply list (food, water, first-aid kit, etc.) at www.ready.gov or Orange County Emergency Services at www.readyorange.org . Preparedness is 3 easy actions – a kit, a plan, and a way to stay informed!

To find Severe Weather Preparedness tips for your home and family, please read this previous notice. Specifically, this reminds residents to:

Remove leaves and debris from gutters, clear your storm drains and drainage areas of any debris or trash, make sure that windows and doors are properly secured, and make sure your sump pump is working if you have one. Secure loose out door objects (patio furniture, etc).
Have a flashlight, batteries, and a first aid kit on hand, in case you get stranded in your home.
Have a week’s supply of medications and supplies ready to administer.
Check to see if your home is in a floodplain to find out if your area has a history of flooding.
Keep important documents – including insurance policies, birth certificates, and passports in an easily accessible waterproof box.
Don’t forget to plan and prepare for your 4-legged family members. If you have to evacuate, have pet supplies ready for a quick exit.
Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. NEVER drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads. If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.

Notify Carrboro Public Works if any problems are spotted with right of way drainage before or after the storm at pworks@ci.carrboro.nc.us. This address is regularly monitored and requests will be answered as soon as possible.

For the latest information stay tuned to local media, listen for updates from the National Weather Service and follow Orange County Emergency Services on social media.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/OCNCEmergency
Twitter - https://twitter.com/ocncemergency