Local agencies activate their resources before Hurricane Matthew hits

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Several local agencies are already activating their resources before the Hurricane Matthew hits the East Coast.

Local responders, from the Charlotte Red Cross to Catawba County Emergency Medical Services, are working to keep the Carolinas safe.

Red Cross crews in Charlotte packed a trailer with cots and blankets, key supplies they're taking to Eastern North Carolina ahead of the powerful storm.

“Our logistics team and volunteers are currently working hard to stage our standard logistics package we would use if we had to open up a shelter-- so that's comprised of cots, blankets, bottled water, snacks,” Red Cross spokesperson Brad Newcomb said.

Newcomb recommends families make preparations too.

“Emergency blankets, a spare set of clothes, canned food and bottled water, at least a gallon per person per day,” he said.

Catawba County EMS tweeted this picture of two paramedics and an ambulance heading east to help with medical operations.

Medic in Charlotte has a mass casualty bus and crew going as well.

The Red Cross says you can help by donating money or giving blood.

On Thursday, the Charlotte Fire Department will send members of the urban search-and-rescue and swift-water rescue teams to New Bern.

Cox Media Group