In September each year, the Federal Emegency Management Agency (FEMA) reminds us we can prepare to face an emergency and protect our homes, family, loved ones and neighbors. Since 2004, the Emergency Preparedness Month campaign encourages Americans to take the small steps that make a big difference.
This year’s theme “Stand Ready” reminds us of the importance of thinking ahead; not just for facing an emergency, but to create community resilence to weather any storm.
- Prioritize personal and family preparedness: Being prepared and self-reliant helps support emergency responders when they are needed most.
- Keep loved ones safe: Taking individual responsibility is the most effective way to protect family and friends during emergencies.
- Strengthen our communities: Proactive community involvement builds collective resilience and helps everyone stay safer.
Here are some of the steps you can take to make sure you have access to the latest information and resources.
Be in the Know
Get Alerts. Sign up for your community’s warning system.
Disasters can happen suddenly, so it’s important to have multiple ways to get alerts from you City, County and more.
AVL Alert is the City of Asheville’s emergency notification system. By enrolling in the system you are automatically subscribed to emergency alerts and can receive information via the communication methods you choose. At any time you can login to the system and change your contact information and opt-in/out of subscriptions.
BC Alerts is Buncombe County’s alert system. It is a direct communication line with residents and visitors, where they share urgent and important information via text and email in real time. Get information about emergencies sent directly to you. You can choose to receive BC Alerts atb home, mobile, or business phones, texts, or emails.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
Evacuation. Having evacuation plans in place can save valuable time and lives.
Always follow the instructions of local officials and remember that your evacuation route may need to be on foot. Whether it’s the home of a friend or family member or a pre-designated shelter, know your evacuation destination. Visit ready.gov/evacuation for more evacuation tips.
Schools and Childcare.
Make sure you know the evacuation and reunification plans of your children’s school and childcare. Be sure
these facilities have your most up to date contact information and know who should be contacted if you can’t be
reached in an emergency.
Be in the know. Download the FEMA App to get tips and resources to help you weather any storm.