Emergency Preparedness

Knowing what to do before, during, and after an emergency is a critical part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count. Basic protective actions can be similar for multiple hazards.

While sheltering in place or evacuating depends on the specific emergency, developing a family communication plan or making an emergency supply kit is key to responding safely to various emergency situations.

During an emergency, the City of Jacksonville will provide important updates and information to Citizens through various channels. Important information will go out through social media messages, web stories, media releases that will be related through local news channels, live broadcasts on G10 television and g10tv.org, as well as the Jacksonville Connect communication system.

Stay Connected with Jacksonville Connect

In Jacksonville, emergencies may likely be due to severe weather events like hurricanes or even tornadoes. Jacksonville Connect is a direct emergency messaging system that is a free service for Citizens. Messages received will include information about hurricanes, fires, loss of power, water outages and other important messages from your local government that directly affect those living in the Jacksonville area.

Jacksonville Connect allows you to choose how you receive emergency messages: phone call, email, or text.

Sign up now

Get Jacksonville Connect before an emergency situation occurs. The service is free and does not share your information with other parties.

What to Expect and How to Prepare

Following a natural disaster or other emergency event, local officials and relief workers will be on the scene, but they may not be able to reach everyone immediately. Basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for several days or longer. Having your own food, water, and medical supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days is a good way to be prepared for any emergency.

Early preparation can go a long way to create a safer situation following a disaster.

Basic Emergency Kit Checklist

Water - 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Whistle - to signal for help
Dust mask - to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties - for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers - to turn off utilities
Can opener - for food
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

Know Your Evacuation Zon

Local and State Emergency Officials have established a tiered evacuation system for 20 counties in eastern North Carolina, including Onslow County. These evacuation zones highlight areas most at risk to storm surge and flooding. The tiered evacuation zones are intended to streamline the evacuation process and can ultimately save your family’s life. Now is a great time to search your address with the interactive map and Know Your Zone in case evacuations are ordered this hurricane season.

Enter your address at KnowYourZone.NC.gov

Other Local Resources

Onslow County Shelter Information
Flood Plain Resources and Information
2021 Southeastern North Carolina Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan - Final

State & Federal Resources

NC Hurricane Guide: Download the PDF
NC Hurricane Guide: (Spanish) Download the PDF
US Emergency Management - www.ready.gov
North Carolina Emergency Preparedness - www.readync.org
North Carolina Emergency Management - www.ncem.org
Federal Emergency Management Agency - www.fema.gov

Need Help from Jacksonville Public Safety?

Only dial 9-1-1 during an emergency l When to call 9-1-1
To seek help or information during a non-emergency, dial 910 455-4000.