With North Carolina already having endured severe weather this summer, including the unwelcome arrival of Tropical Storm Chantal, Governor Josh Stein has offered seasonal preparedness advice. He urges residents to remain vigilant, with summer still ongoing, and emphasizes the risks posed by both record-breaking heatwaves and the continuing hurricane season, according to a press release from the Governor’s Office.
"Beat the heat by knowing the signs," Governor Stein recently wrote, outlining key strategies for North Carolinians to avoid heat-related illnesses. He recommended always checking the heat index before venturing outside, and to never underestimate the importance of hydration and frequent breaks during hot days, as per the Governor’s Office.
In a bid to ensure safety for all, Stein also stressed the significance of monitoring the vulnerable ones among us—pets, children, elderly neighbors, and those with medical conditions. He encourages citizens to actively learn more about heat safety and to sign up for local heat alerts here.
The governor didn’t stop at just heat advisories; he also reminded everyone that hurricane season is in full swing, noting that it "runs from June through November" and speaking to how even unaccustomed areas are finding themselves in the path of storms. Stein advocates for staying informed about storm paths and evacuation routes, following local weather updates as a daily summer routine.
The practicability of an emergency kit was also highlighted in the op-ed, with Governor Stein advising residents to assemble one before disaster has a chance to strike. Suggesting that while most necessary items might already be in homes, having them in one designated location can drastically reduce response times in emergencies. "Your kit should include enough water, food, and supplies to last each person and pet for three to seven days," Stein outlined, driving the point that self-sufficiency post-disaster is vital for survival and comfort in challenging circumstances. Details on preparing an emergency kit can be found in the Governor’s Office column.
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