As Winter Storm Fern barrels down on Union County, local officials have teamed up with the American Red Cross to open a public shelter at Monroe Middle School, located at 601 E. Sunset Drive in Monroe, NC. The initiative aims to offer residents impacted by the storm access to essential amenities and protection from the harsh conditions. In an official statement according to Union County's website, the shelter began receiving residents on yesterday at 6 p.m., and will continue to do so for the duration of the storm.
The facility is equipped to provide the basics: sleeping cots, meals, showers, and critical services. For those with specific dietary requirements, the county advises bringing their own provisions. Sheila Crunkleton, Shelter Manager with the American Red Cross, underscored the welcoming nature of the refuge in the face of severe weather. Crunkleton told Union County's website, "If you’re without heat or power, or if conditions at home are no longer safe, please use this shelter. Our priority is making sure everyone has a warm, secure place to stay."
Residents are encouraged to come prepared to hunker down for multiple days and should consider bringing medications, personal care items and snacks that do not require preparation. To ensure safety and order within the shelter, there's a zero-tolerance policy for weapons, drugs, and alcohol. All guests must sign in and out aiding in maintaining an accurate headcount.
Dogs and cats needing shelter are not left out in the cold. The spacious shelter has a designated section for pets but with limited capacity. Owners must bring their pets' rabies certification and supplies for their care. However, individuals who depend on certain medical equipment, such as ventilators and specialty medical beds, should seek assistance at the nearest emergency room, as per Union County's news post.
Moreover, amid concerns about health safety, Union County Public Health will be implementing stringent measles screening procedures at the shelter. Visitors will face screening prior to entry, and those displaying symptoms or those recently exposed to measles should not enter the shelter, but instead contact their healthcare provider. The anticipatory measures echo a conscientious effort to balance urgent need for shelter against public health and safety.
