NORTH CAROLINA -- As Hurricane Florence gets closer, some items are running out in stores.

But, there's no need to panic. There are things you can do at home to get yourself ready.

“It’s not a waste of money, it's not a waste of time,” Allyson Sigmon with Concord Fire Department said. “You’re preparing for the worst, hoping for the best and if you have it and don’t have to use it that’s great. You can use it gradually.”

Here are a few tips from emergency officials: 

  • Fill up bathtubs and extra sinks with water.
  • Wet wash cloths and freeze them in case the power and air conditioning go out.
  • If you need more water, try double bagging some and freezing. It provides as an icepack and fresh water once it melts.
  • Stick important documents and other papers in plastic bags and put them in your dishwasher.
  • Have external batteries and try to keep all phones charged. If you can help it, only use one device at a time to save battery power.

Stay up to date on the clean-up and aftermath of Florence: