FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Citizen Advisory - Residents Advised to Prepare for Hurricane Florence – September 10, 2018 - 4:30 p.m.
Be Aware – Be Prepared
With hurricane Florence forecasted to impact the east coast later this week, Campbell County could see heavy rain, flash flooding, downed trees, loss of power, or even the possibility of tornadoes depending on the storm’s final trajectory and intensity (which as of today still remains unclear). Local public safety officials are closely monitoring the path of this storm and encourage residents to be aware of its possible effects and prepare in advance.
- Make a Kit, Get and Plan, and Stay Informed. To learn more, visit www.VAEmergency.gov or Campbell County’s Emergency Preparedness webpage.
- Have enough food, fresh water and personal care items for you, your family, and pets to last at least three days in case you lose power.
- Have any needed medications in supply. If you rely on electronic medical equipment, make sure back-up systems are working properly.
- Keep important documents, phone numbers and cash easily accessible.
- Have a family/friend/neighbor contact plan to check on others.
- Charge cell phones and electronic devices in advance; fill vehicles’ gas tanks.
- If necessary to use a generator, use according to manufacturer’s instructions and check that sufficient ventilation is present.
- Secure your property of anything that could cause damage if high wind becomes an issue (dead tree limbs, lawn/porch items, etc.).
- Only travel if necessary during severe weather and DO NOT CROSS FLOOD WATERS. Roadways could be damaged beneath flood waters, and a few inches of water can sweep vehicles away. TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN.
- Only call 911 if you are experiencing an emergency. This keeps 911 lines open for those who are in critical need.
- For power or internet outages, call your service provider directly. For a list of local service providers, please visit Campbell County’s power outage page at http://va-campbellcounty.civicplus.com/248/Power-Outages.
- Sign-up for CodeRED weather alerts affecting your area. Also, stay tuned to local media for advisories and updated weather conditions.
- Monitor any Virginia road closing at http://www.511virginia.org – click on text views and select a locality from the dropdown menu.
“Those in low lying areas and flood zones should monitor this hurricane very closely. Be prepared to seek a safer, higher location if projections indicate a full impact of rain and flooding for our area,” said Tracy Fairchild, Campbell County Public Safety Director. “It’s too soon to tell what the next few days will hold. Our message now to local residents is be aware and be prepared.”