Haywood County proclaims September 2025 as Preparedness Month, schedules Helene anniversary observances

The Haywood County Board of Commissioners on Sept. 2 unanimously approved a proclamation declaring September 2025 as Haywood County Preparedness Month and announced related public events tied to Hurricane Helene recovery.

Allison Richmond, Haywood County Emergency Services public information officer, presented the proclamation and described county preparedness steps completed since last years storms, including construction of new siren sites, installation of permanent emergency information stations and public outreach. "We have installed several new permanent emergency information stations throughout the county and there are several more that are coming," Richmond said.

The proclamation notes statewide severe weather statistics and cites Haywood Countys experience with Hurricane Helene, which caused loss of life and damage to homes, businesses, waterways and infrastructure. The boards action encourages residents to assemble emergency supply kits, make family disaster plans and include pets and elderly neighbors in preparedness plans.

Richmond described two upcoming public events: a county ceremony marking the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on the steps of the historic Haywood County Courthouse, and a "Day of Resilience" event on Sept. 20 where residents can pick up free family emergency kits. "Several opportunities over the next month for you to come out and improve your family's preparedness," she said.

Commissioners moved to approve the proclamation; a motion passed with unanimous voice vote. No formal vote tally by name was recorded.

The board also encouraged residents to participate in outreach events and watch county communications for more preparedness information.