The North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities supports ReadyNC.gov in encouraging people to be prepared for all types of emergencies. In this blog post, we will share and provide updates on tips and other emergency preparedness information for North Carolinians to help keep you and your loved ones safe. Please share with others!

Information is provided in other languages on the ReadyNC.gov website. Just click the "Select Language" in the upper right area of the web page to choose the language you need.

Weather experts expect a lot of hurricanes in 2024. Prepare now!

• Make a Plan: https://www.readync.gov/plan-and-prepare/make-plan (ASL and Spanish videos available)
• Watch an ASL video: https://www.readync.gov/stay-informed/readync-asl-video
• Get a Kit: https://www.readync.gov/plan-and-prepare/get-kit (ASL and Spanish videos available)
• Emergency Alerts: https://www.readync.gov/stay-informed/emergency-alerts (Spanish video available)
• Hurricane Guide: The 2023 North Carolina Hurricane Guide is available in English and Spanish and contains many graphics: https://www.readync.gov/plan-and-prepare/hurricane-guide

Tips to stay safe

Preparing for hurricane season

Did you know that weather experts predict a lot of hurricanes in 2024? They expect the Atlantic Ocean to see more hurricanes than normal in 2024. You need to prepare NOW! Go to the ReadyNC.com to learn about information that will help you stay safe during any emergency, including a hurricane or a tropical storm.

Make an emergency kit!

It's important to have an emergency kit ready to support your needs. Some agencies and organizations give out free emergency kits. Or you might need to build your own kit. If so, find a backpack and think about what you want to have in that backpack if you must leave your home to go to an emergency shelter or to evacuate to another safe place. Do you want water? Do you want snacks? Do you need an extra phone charger and a battery pack? Do you have a piece of paper that contains important medical information about you and important phone numbers on it? Keep this and other important papers in a secure, waterproof plastic bag in case your backpack gets wet.  Do you want a book to read or a puzzle to do? You might put all of these in your kit. You might also buy items to keep in your home in case the power goes out and the grocery store is closed, such as bottled water, canned food, toilet paper, paper towels or wipes, and batteries. Read more about how to Make a Kit.

Show Me: A Communication Tool for Shelters

If you need to go to a shelter or talk to first responders but you have trouble communicating, you can use this booklet. You can also download it to your smartphone or tablet. You can point at the pictures to tell people helping you what you need. Learn more here: https://www.nccdd.org/images/article/initiatives/2016-08-03_Reportcover.pdf

Disaster-Specific Mental Health Resources and Support Toolkit

NCDHHS’ Disaster and Behavioral Health Resources Communications Toolkit includes disaster-specific tips and resources for North Carolinians, information on how to navigate stressful events and where to find mental health support. The materials also offer disaster resources for people living with a disability or as a caregiver, and how to access care if you struggle with substance use. You can use the toolkit to learn safety guidance and help others do the same. Learn more here: Disaster and Behavioral Health Resources Communication Toolkit