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1 <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT <br /> Meeting Date: September 14, 2021 <br /> Action Agenda <br /> Item No. 4-c <br /> SUBJECT: Orange County Preparedness Month Proclamation <br /> DEPARTMENT: Emergency Services <br /> ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: <br /> Proclamation Kirby Saunders, ES Director, (919) 245- <br /> 6100 <br /> PURPOSE: To consider a proclamation declaring September 2021 as "Orange County <br /> Preparedness Month." <br /> BACKGROUND: National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to promote family <br /> and community disaster planning now and throughout the year. The theme of this year's National <br /> Preparedness Month is "Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you <br /> love." <br /> Following 2020, North Carolina has continued to experience an unusually high volume of <br /> disasters, to include the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, winter weather, severe weather <br /> (including tornadoes), and infrastructure disruptions. So far this year, Orange County has <br /> experienced multiple watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service for severe <br /> weather, flooding, and tornadic activity. The 2021 Hurricane Season continues to be above- <br /> normal in predictions for both severity and frequency of storms. <br /> FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with consideration of the <br /> proclamation. <br /> SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goal is applicable to <br /> this item: <br /> • GOAL: CREATE A SAFE COMMUNITY <br /> The reduction of risks from vehicle/traffic accidents, childhood and senior injuries, gang <br /> activity, substance abuse and domestic violence. <br /> Disaster response and recovery takes the Whole Community (government, voluntary agencies, <br /> businesses, and community members) to be successful. A prepared community starts with <br /> individuals and families. People can prepare for disasters by following three steps: <br /> 1. Create a kit with at least three days' worth of supplies <br /> 2. Make a family disaster plan <br /> 3. Stay informed of local threats and hazards. <br />