Mayor Vi Lyles, City of Charlotte | Wikipedia
Mayor Vi Lyles, City of Charlotte | Wikipedia
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management Office (CMEMO) is promoting September as National Preparedness Month, urging residents and businesses in Mecklenburg County to review their emergency plans, update their emergency supply kits, and sign up for CharMeck Alerts.
CMEMO emphasizes its commitment to protecting the community by preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters. The office collaborates with local partners to build a resilient community.
"Preparing for emergencies involves taking simple steps to increase your safety and peace of mind," stated CMEMO. "By creating a personalized plan, assembling an emergency kit, and staying informed, you can empower yourself and your family to handle unexpected challenges."
During Preparedness Month, CMEMO encourages residents to discuss their emergency plans with family members. This plan should include a family meeting location such as a neighbor’s house, nearby park, or local landmark. It should detail where to meet, how to get in touch with one another, and what actions to take regarding pets.
Basic items recommended for an emergency kit include:
- Water: 1 gallon per person per day for 3 to 7 days
- Food: non-perishable and canned food supply for 3 to 7 days
- Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio with extra batteries
- Cell phone with charger
- First aid kit and first aid book
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Manual can opener for food
- Wrench or pliers to turn off water
- Blanket or sleeping bag – 1 per person
- Prescription medications, glasses, hearing aids
- Seasonal change of clothing including sturdy shoes
- Toothbrushes, 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
The CharMeck Alerts Notification system provides accurate notifications of essential information. Users can choose the types of alerts they want to receive via phone calls, text messages, emails, or push notifications.
"This month and every month is the time to prepare your family for the unexpected," CMEMO advises.
Alerts Sign-up