As the Atlantic hurricane season commences, NC Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey visited Kinston to underscore the importance of hurricane preparedness for the residents of eastern North Carolina. The event brought together local officials to discuss strategies for minimizing damage and ensuring public safety during the anticipated active hurricane season.

"Be prepared for hurricane season," Causey stated. "June 1st through November is hurricane season, and this year is predicted to be very active. We want the residents to be prepared now, not wait until a storm hits."

Causey highlighted the Department of Insurance's ongoing efforts to educate the public about flood insurance. "We have flood insurance classes where we work with insurance agents, engineers, and the public. It's crucial for people to understand that homeowners' policies do not cover floods. We learned this hard lesson during Hurricane Florence when many found out too late that they had no insurance coverage for floods."

Mayor Don Hardy of Kinston echoed Causey's sentiments on preparedness. "We have to be proactive versus reactive," Hardy said. He emphasized the importance of having emergency kits, radios, and properly maintained generators. "Make sure you're operating in a safe location and have the necessities like water and canned foods," he advised.

Lenoir County Emergency Service Director Murry Stroud shared insights on local preparations. "We ensure all disaster equipment is operational and constantly work to get the message out to the public to be prepared," Stroud said. He warned against complacency, stressing that last-minute preparations can lead to unnecessary panic and stress. "Stay in tune, listen to the messages, and heed the warnings," he urged.

Interim Fire Chief Chad Jackson of Kinston spoke about the critical need for residents to heed evacuation warnings. "If we come to your residence and advise you that the water is coming, that is your time to gather your belongings and evacuate safely with us," Jackson stated. He recounted experiences from previous hurricanes, emphasizing the speed at which floodwaters can rise and the importance of timely evacuation.

Causey reiterated that the Department of Insurance is available to assist residents year-round. "We have people on the phones Monday through Friday, 8:00 to 5:00. If you have questions about insurance or disputes with an insurance company, give us a call at 855-408-1212 or visit ncdoi.gov," he said. He emphasized that local emergency management and first responders are also ready to support residents.

As the hurricane season begins, local officials in Kinston and Lenoir County are united in their message: preparedness is key to safety and resilience in the face of natural disasters.