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, Gaston County 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 as well as ALERT Gaston

Alert Gaston

Alert Gaston is the primary emergency notification system Gaston County will use to alert citizens about a variety of events, ranging from severe weather, fires, floods and other emergencies, to more routine announcements, such as road closures. Citizens who sign up for “ALERT GASTON” can receive notifications through their preferred method of contact, via cell phone, SMS, home phone, email, fax, and pager, to ensure real-time access to potentially lifesaving information.

Anyone who lives, works, or travels through Gaston County is encouraged to register immediately to receive these alerts. This can be done by visiting Alert Gaston, or by downloading the Everbridge Contact app (which only allows you to receive emergency notifications) from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and registering your device, or by requesting a registration form by emailing Alert Gaston.

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

  • 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
  • Baby supplies for at least 3 days
  • Medicine for a least 3 days

Extended periods of time where shelters will need to be set up Gaston County Emergency Management along with other organizations will work to set up shelters around the County where needed.

Items you should take with you to a shelter

  • Baby supplies for at least 3 days
  • Medicine for at least 3 days
  • Children’s toys and favorite blankets
  • Pillows

Cots, blankets, meals and showers will be provided at the shelter.

Please do not bring your pets to the shelter. Leave pets in a secure area of your home with a 3 day supply of food and water.

For more information, contact the Emergency Operations Center at 704-866-3350