intersects with Interstate 95, allowing travelers to head north or south to their desired destination. While this route may appear longer on a map or GPS, it is typically faster than evacuating via Highway 158. Those residing in or visiting Kill Devil Hills up through Corolla are encouraged to take Highway 158 out through Currituck County.

Evacuation routes are well-marked with blue hurricane evacuation

Preparedness a fire could start due to the electrical system being wet.” If there is an active storm, prohibit use of barbeque grills. Do not bring grills inside your home, store them safely at least 10-feet away from your property and other combustible materials. Keeping a fire extinguisher next to grills is advised. Fire systems within homes should be prepped prior to a storm, as these are described by Zorc as the “first line of defense” when it comes to a fire. Ensure all smoke detectors have fresh batteries and test your device once a month. Smoke detectors should be installed, at least, on every level of a home and should not be more than 10 years old. To further strengthen your home in an effort to prevent fire damage, a fire sprinkler system or regular residential fire alarm system with connectivity to a monitoring agency can be installed. If fire extinguishers are kept within a property, residents should be versed in how to use them. They can be very beneficial if a small fire breaks out.

If a mandatory evacuation is ordered, public officials always recommend that the public follows local evacuations routes and exist the area. The same holds true in the event of a fire; evacuate the area and call 911 so route signs. High-profile vehicles (campers, tractor trailers, boats, RVs, etc.) are at risk while traveling during high winds, especially on bridges. These vehicles should evacuate long before heavy winds begin. There are no American Red Cross approved shelters in Dare County. Inland shelter locations will be broadcast on local radio and television stations and posted on www.darenc. com. The two evacuation zones for Dare County can emergency services can assist. be found by visiting www. knowyourzone.nc.gov.

Exit drills should be practiced so everyone knows to leave a home affected by a fire and meet at an agreed upon rally point, which should be a central location.

Zorc emphasized not going back inside a house that’s on fire.

For those vacationing on the Outer Banks, the North Carolina Vacation Rental Act Article 6 addresses mandatory evacuation compliance and refund entitlements for those that have not refused insurance coverage. When an evacuation is ordered, follow your rental company’s check-out guidance, take all belongings with you, leave quickly and expect delays as you travel home. Be prepared as visitors may be evacuated prior to residents. Evacuate early – don’t wait! Evacuation routes will become very congested. Flooding can begin well before a hurricane nears land. Plan to evacuate early and keep a full tank of gas in your vehicle.

If you are vacationing and choose to stay in the event an evacuation is issued, prepare to sustain yourself for at least 72 hours. There may not be

FILE PHOTO power, water, rescue or medical services available. Stay away from windows and glass doors, and move furniture away from exposed doors and windows. Don’t go out in the brief calm during the passage of the eye of the storm; after the eye passes, the winds will change direction and quickly return to hurricane force. Keep the radio or television tuned in for the latest updates, if possible. around us,” Zorc said. Once your own safety preparations are in order, check on your neighbors, particularly those that are sick, elderly or are lacking in resources play a role in both safety and well-being. “Preparations are the most important part of what we do; they help us become more of a survivor instead of a victim.” Serving the Outer Banks and protecting the livelihood of our neighbors since 1973.