Have a list, back-up plan for emergencies

As part of Preparedness Month 2024 the Surry County Health & Nutrition Center is sharing tips to keep families safe. Recent unexpected heavy rains in North Carolina’s coastal communities have illustrated that an emergency situation can develop without much preamble and leave even seasoned residents in difficult situations for prolonged periods of time.

While Surry County is less likely to feel the brunt of pounding rains from a slow-moving tropical system than folks living on the coast, those who live in the Yadkin Valley know that heavy rains from higher elevations can lead to later flooding via the four rivers that traverse Surry County.

“Recent events like Tropical Storm Debby that caused damage in our state highlight the importance of being prepared,” said Gov. Roy Cooper. “It’s not a matter of if, but when North Carolina will face a significant storm or other disruptive events. We must be proactive and prepared.”

The Surry County health department said, “When a disaster strikes, you and responders may not have time to find specific contacts that you need urgently. Having a list of emergency contacts readily available is critical, and making sure everyone in the household knows where it is at could save lives.”

Officials there said people should consider placing copies of the list in multiple areas, as well as in the family’s emergency location, like a storm shelter or basement. “Review your contact list regularly and have back-up contacts for if your primary emergency contacts are also affected by the disaster,” officials said.

They also recommend having some of these as emergency contacts including contacts for pets. That may include veterinarians, emergency veterinary hospitals, and people who can watch a pet until the owner can find shelter.

Contacts for children may include school administrators, pediatricians, family or friends who can watch children, daycares, and child-specific assistance.

Contacts for issues regarding one’s home like their insurance agent, electricity and utility outage reporting numbers may become necessary.

Contacts lists should also include next of kin, close friends and family who can help, employer or work, and physician according to officials.

The health officials said to call Surry County 911 Communications for life-or-death emergencies, 336-374-3000 for less severe reporting, and to include poison control, at 800-222-1222, in a list of emergency numbers.