Emergency Preparedness Week: September 21st-25th

Is you're family ready for a natural disaster or other emergency?

Five years ago this month, Asheville and its surrounding cities were hit by successive hurricanes, Francis and Ivan, causing massive flooding and downed power lines, leaving thousands without power, water, and a limited access to food. In the wake of the flood's 5 year Anniversary, it's important for our community to remember to be prepared for natural disasters prone to this region, like the floods, earthquakes and tornadoes. An additional concern this year is the spread of the HINI Virus, which has taken to the Southeast more heavily than it has in other parts of the country.

ABC 13 and the Buncombe County Health Center wants to be sure you and your family are prepared in case of an unexpected emergency. Do you have an emergency kit with enough food, water & medication to sustain your family if confined to your home? Do you have enough gas in your car to get you to a safe destination in case of an evacuation? What about your pets? If schools and businesses are closed because of the H1N1 virus do you have a back up plan in place? This is just the tip of the iceberg. It seems like a lot to ponder, but we're here to help make it easier.

Be Prepared. Plan. Stay Informed

September 21st-25th is Emergency Preparedness Week. During this week, tune in to News 13 as we cover all the important aspects of getting your family ready for a natural disaster or other emergency. We'll explore what natural disasters can happen in our area and give you tips on how you can help your family be best prepared.

Then, September 24th join News 13 at these following locations to put what we've learned into action. Let's get our emergency kits together! Also, present will be our community's first responders, like Firemen, Police & Nurses, who will be available to answer an additional questions you might have.

• Lowes, Tunnel Rd.
• Lowes, Weaverville
• Lowes, Smokey Park Highway
• Walmart, Hendersonville

It's important for our community to realize, it's not IF an emergency strikes, it's WHEN an emergency strikes. Together we can Prepare, Plan & Stay Informed.

What goes in an Emergency Preparedness Kit?

For more info and to download a printable list visit ready.gov