MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT -- At the start of hurricane season across Eastern North Carolina, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point hosted its annual Emergency Preparedness Fair, June 4.
During the fair, service members and military family members learned what resources are available at Cherry Point and in surrounding communities to prepare for and respond to hurricanes and other natural disasters.
“Almost all natural disasters in our area are weather related,” said Etta Lucas, the mission assurance emergency manager for the air station. “We are susceptible to severe thunderstorms, flooding, hurricanes, tornadoes and other severe changes in climate.”
According to Lucas, providing attendees with information pertaining to the different types of disasters they could face and available resources is vital to adequate preparation. Emergency responders and disaster responders coordinators from the local community and national agencies spent the afternoon informing attendees and providing information about emergency preparation.
According to Lucas, knowing the resources that are available, where to locate them and how to prepare for all types of emergency situations gives families the opportunity to better prepare for emergency situations.
“It is important to have a plan, make a kit and stay informed,” said Lucus.