Get Ready: Hurricane Prepardness Week is May 4-10
With hurricane season just around the corner (June 1 through November 30, 2025) County Emergency Services is urging residents to take action now during Hurricane Prepardness Week (May 4-10) by reviewing and updating their emergency plans and supply kits.
"As the start of hurricane season approaches, May is the perfect time to prepare for tropical storms and severe weather," said Teresa Smith, Columbus County Emergency Services Deputy Director. "Being ready ahead of time, by creating an emergency plan and assembling a supply kit, can be the difference between being a hurricane victim or a hurricane survivor."
What You Can Do Now
1. Make a plan
Write down your family's emergency plan. Include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and meeting locations. Be sure every family member knows the plan and how to access it.
2. Build or update your emergency supply kit
Stock your kit with enough non-perishable food and water to sustain each person in your household for at least one week. Other essential items include:
- First-aid kit
- Battery-powered or hand crank weather radio with extra batteries
- Prescription medications
- Sleeping bags or blankets
- Extra clothing
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant)
- At least $200 in cash
- Pet supplies (food, water, leash, muzzle, litter, bedding, vaccination records)
3. Stay Informed and Ready to Act
When a storm is approaching, tune in to local news or a NOAA weather radio for the latest weather updates and instructions. Know your community evacuation routes and evacuate immediately if asked to. Following official guidance protects not just your household but also emergency responders who may be called to help.
For more resources and tools to help you get prepared visit www.ReadyNC.gov