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Hudson Joins NC Colleagues in Asking for Emergency Declaration

September 10, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 10, 2018
Hudson Joins NC Colleagues in Asking for Emergency Declaration
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08) released the following statement after joining the rest of the North Carolina Congressional delegation in sending a letter to President Donald Trump requesting immediate consideration and approval of an Emergency Declaration as the state prepares for Hurricane Florence:
“Forecasts show Hurricane Florence is gaining strength and will likely have direct landfall in North Carolina,” said Rep. Hudson. “Federal partners, state and local officials, and emergency managers are closely monitoring and coordinating to prepare and respond to a direct and major impact. An Emergency Declaration will unlock resources and help provide further assistance. We are praying for the best, but preparing for the worst. I’m also urging all North Carolinians to ensure you and your family are prepared, to stay informed, and to heed the directions of local officials. Renee and I are continuing to pray for the safety of our community and everyone else in Hurricane Florence’s path.”
To read the letter, click here.
Rep. Hudson encourages residents to be ready by doing the following:
1. Replenish supplies and update your emergency kit. Every family should have an emergency kit with enough bottled water (one gallon/person/day), nonperishable food and clothing to sustain each family member for three to seven days. The kit should include a flashlight, radio and spare batteries. Blankets, rain gear and appropriate footwear also are recommended. Special considerations must be made for the young or disabled. Remember to include baby food, diapers and medicines as appropriate. In addition, the kit should include photo copies of important family documents, such as birth certificates and insurance policies. A complete checklist of items for your emergency kit can be found here.
2. Determine if you are in a storm surge zone. Residents living in storm surge zones may be ordered to evacuate. Evacuation zones will be identified by local emergency managers through the news media. You also should know if your home is located in a flood plain. These areas suffer from heavy rains associated with hurricanes. Visit ncfloodmaps.com to determine if you are in a flood zone.
3. Plan for your pets. Some shelters will allow small, domestic pets, but pet owners should bring supplies and vaccination records with them. Residents should attach identification and rabies tags to their pets' collars.
4. Obtain supplies to protect the home. If residents are ordered to evacuate, there will be little time to protect their homes from the storm. Supplies, such as lumber and shutters, should be purchased now, and window casing pre-drilled. Homeowners should clear their property of all debris that could damage buildings in strong winds. Cars should be stored in the garage.
5. Stay Informed. Listen to local meteorologists and stay tuned to local media. Keep cell phones and other mobile devices charged in anticipation of power outages.
Download the free ReadyNC or FEMA mobile applications for emergency information on-the-go. The ReadyNC app provides real-time weather updates, traffic and flood conditions, shelter openings and evacuation listings. It also includes information about what to include in emergency kits and where to report power outages in North Carolina. The FEMA mobile app provides National Weather Service alerts, safety reminders, locations of shelters and where to talk to FEMA in person. Users can also upload and share disaster photos to help first responders. Both mobile apps will provide further information about disaster recovery assistance should it be implemented after the storm passes.
Rep. Hudson reminded residents to heed the directions of local officials and evacuate immediately if instructed to do so. Those who experience life-threatening emergencies should call 9-1-1.
For more information about how to get ready for a hurricane and what to do during or after a storm, go to ReadyNC.org. Follow N.C. Emergency Management on Twitter and Facebook for the latest on Hurricane Florence.
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