The National Hurricane Center is advising the mid-Atlantic region to monitor the progress of Florence. Gentle Shepherd Hospice leadership met this morning and activated our emergency preparedness plan. Now a category 4 hurricane, Florence is expected to make landfall later this week and is projected to move through North Carolina and into southwest Virginia. Significant rainfall and flooding is expected.
Gentle Shepherd has begun assessing the needs of our patients and making plans to ensure they have adequate supplies (oxygen, medications) and that our staff is well-prepared to meet any needs that may arise.
For patients that live in a flood zone — Start planning now to move to a safer location, such as a relative’s house. If you do not have a back-up plan, please call our office at 800-789-0586 immediately and we will begin making plans to move them to a facility. Facilities can fill up quickly in these situations, so the sooner we address this, the better.
Even if you do not live in a flood zone, also start taking the necessary precautions to prepare your family for a potential weather disaster that could include widespread flooding (to homes and roads) and power outages.
Visit the Red Cross website for extensive information about preparing for a flood and staying safe.https://www.redcross.org/get-
We will be monitoring the status of Florence throughout the week and will post updates on our Facebook page and website. Please stay informed through local media outlets this week.
Our prayers are with you.
Gentle Shepherd Hospice Leadership Team