Brunswick County recognizes September 2023 as National Preparedness Month
MEDIA RELEASE
BOLIVIA, N.C. – The Brunswick County Board of Commissioners have proclaimed September 2023 as Preparedness Month in Brunswick County. The resolution was adopted in recognition of National Preparedness Month, an annual Ready campaign that is observed each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies.
This year’s theme is Take Control in 1, 2, 3, which focuses on preparing older adults for disasters; specifically, older adults from communities that are disproportionally impacted by all-hazard events.
“Living on the coast comes with its own dangers, especially during hurricane season,” Chairman Randy Thompson said. “You never know how a natural disaster will impact you or the lives of those around you. We encourage every community member to prepare before an emergency happens.”
Brunswick County has been affected by a number of disasters and emergencies over the last five years, including wildfires, droughts, hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, flash floods, and winter storms. With peak Atlantic hurricane season taking place from mid-August to late October, a natural disaster or emergency could happen at any time.
Older adults often face greater risks when it comes to the multitude of extreme weather events and emergencies found in coastal North Carolina, especially if they are living alone, are low-income, have a disability, or live in rural areas.
In 2022, approximately 34% of Brunswick County’s population consisted of residents over the age of 65. The U.S. Census Bureau projects that by year 2035, there will be more U.S. citizens over the age of 65 than under the age of 18.
“It is well-known that our community has a growing older population,” Emergency Management Deputy Director David McIntire said. “Many of our older community members have special needs that increase their risk of injury during an emergency. Now is the time to start evaluating your needs and preparing for any risks you may face.”
TAKE CONTROL IN 1, 2, 3
Older adults, caregivers, and their loved ones can get prepared and take control in three simple steps:
- Assess your needs. Understand how variables such as refrigerated medications, food, mobility or assistive devices, disabilities, children, and pets will factor into what you will need to stay safe in a disaster or emergency. Residents are strongly encouraged to sign up for the Brunswick County Access & Functional Needs (AFN) Registry if they have additional needs in medical, access, or functional areas.
- Make a plan. Once you assess your needs, you can tailor your plans to make sure your needs are met. If you’re an older adult or work with and support older adult communities visit Ready.gov/older-adults and Ready.gov/es/adultos-mayores for resources.
- Engage your support network. Build a support network by reaching out to family, friends, and neighbors who can assist you before, during, and after a disaster or emergency. Work together to practice your emergency plan and communicate any concerns with them.
Learn more about National Preparedness Month at Ready.gov/September.
MEDIA INQUIRIES
For media inquiries, contact Communications Director Meagan Kascsak at 910.253.2995 or email meagan.kascsak@brunswickcountync.gov