09/09/2026
September is National Preparedness Month, an annual observance that encourages individuals, families, businesses, and communities to prepare for emergencies and disasters before they happen.
Alexander County Emergency Management officials encourage residents and businesses to use the month as an opportunity to review their emergency plans and update their emergency supply kits.
“Whether it’s a natural disaster or a manmade emergency, everyone needs to be prepared,” said Daniel Fox, Alexander County Emergency Management Coordinator. “Start by talking with your family about what you would do in an emergency and then practice your plan. Know where you would go if you had to evacuate, whether that’s with family or friends, at a hotel, or another safe location. A good emergency plan should also be flexible because circumstances can change quickly during a disaster.”
Fox encourages residents, schools, and businesses to develop and routinely practice emergency plans with household members, students, staff, or employees. Plans should include meeting locations, methods of communication, evacuation procedures, arrangements for pets, and other needs specific to the household or organization.
“You should also keep an emergency supply kit that can sustain you and your family for three to seven days without outside assistance,” Fox said. “Check your kit regularly to make sure food hasn’t expired, batteries are fresh, and medications and other supplies are current. Include clothing appropriate for the season and make sure you have the necessities you would need if utilities, stores, or other services were unavailable.”
Fox also encourages friends, family, and neighbors to routinely check on the elderly to ensure their health and safety.
Basic items that should be included in an emergency kit:
• Water: 1 gallon per person per day for 3 to 7 days
• Non-perishable and canned food for 3 to 7 days
• Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries
• Cell phone with charger
• First aid kit and first aid manual
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Manual can opener
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Blanket or sleeping bag for each person
• Prescription medications, glasses, and hearing aids
• Seasonal change of clothing, including sturdy shoes
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and feminine hygiene supplies
• Extra house and vehicle keys
• Important documents, including insurance policies, copies of identification, Social Security cards, and bank account records
• Fire extinguisher
• Cash and coins
• Books, games, or cards
Alexander County utilizes the CodeRED emergency alert notification system to provide important information during emergencies. Residents are encouraged to register to receive alerts. Learn more at https://alexandercountync.gov/codered.
For help developing an emergency plan, building an emergency supply kit, and other preparedness information, visit www.ReadyNC.gov.
