Is hurricane complacency a problem?

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - We talk about so many storms that never hit Hampton Roads directly, so it is easy to be lulled into complacency. Emergency workers say this could be a big concern and they hope you don't fall into the category of being unprepared for a major storm.

Hampton Roads and North Carolina have not had a major hurricane hit since Isabel in 2003. There has been flooding and damage from tropical storms since then, but nothing truly devastating. Because of that, there is now worry many residents may have a false sense of security when they hear of a hurricane warning and they might get caught unprepared.

At Mount Trashmore in Virginia Beach Wednesday, the furthest thing from anyone's mind is a hurricane, but it doesn't take long for the sunshine and breeze to turn into stinging rain and powerful wind when a storm rolls up the coast. Many know what they need to prepare for a hurricane.

"We keep a stock of batteries and flashlights and plenty of non-perishable food in the house and water," said Jennifer Adams of Virginia Beach.

"I do try to make sure we have the batteries, flashlights, candles, and water at the very least," said Kelle Thomas of Virginia Beach.

The question is, will you buy what you need, or will you ignore the warnings if and when a hurricane is on its way?

"People don't take it seriously because it hasn't happened in a while," said Holly Flemming of Virginia Beach.

"It happens every year, we'll hear a lot about what's coming, but we've always lucked out," Thomas said.

Counting on luck, though, is a concern for emergency workers.

"Complacency is really the biggest hazard," says Jim Redick of Norfolk's Office of Emergency Preparedness & Response.

Redick says his office works with the residents, the military and businesses to make sure all are ready for a hurricane no matter the size.

"We share tools with them, planning templates, make sure that they are aware of the resources that they have," Redick said.

Redick says what you have in your home is just as important understanding where your home is located.

"The motto is always run from the water, hide from the wind. So, be cognizant of what surge zone or flood zone you may be in," Redick said.

It's also important to remember that you need to be prepared for much more than the length of the storm.  Remember the chaos it can leave behind.

"It's the trees coming down, the cleanup, the flooding, are you going to be able to get out of your neighborhood? Is EMS going to be able to get into you if need be," says Adams.

The bottom line: now is not the time to be complacent. You need to be ready, heed all warnings, and Redick says it's important to remember that "It's happened before and it'll happen again."

Redick also says each year it's important to review all things pertaining to evacuation, not just the route. Remember to figure out if you plan to stay with family or at a hotel. Decide what to do with your pets and remember to have a full supply of any medications you might need.