Chad Pennell – Alexander County Sheriff, Robin Nicholson – Duke Energy District Manager for Government and Community Relations, and Daniel Fox – Alexander County Emergency Management Coordinator.
The grant funds were used to purchase 16 Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) and 16 throw bags to equip deputies operating in or near flood-prone areas. This proactive investment addresses a critical safety need identified following recent flash flooding incidents and the widespread impacts of Hurricane Helene.
“Flooding continues to be a recurring hazard in Alexander County,” said Daniel Fox, Alexander County Emergency Management Coordinator. “These kits will allow personnel to safely assess roadway hazards, support traffic operations, and assist during emergency conditions. We’re grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for investing in tools that enhance responder safety and community preparedness.”
These water safety kits will improve safety during flood-related incidents by providing essential equipment when responding to investigate road hazards, managing traffic around high-water areas, and assisting with evacuation efforts when necessary.
“With the Catawba River flowing through this area as well as other water sources, the risks of high water and flooding are ever-present,” said Robin Nicholson, Duke Energy District Manager for Government and Community Relations. “Duke Energy focuses on the safety of our operations, and being able to provide support for life-saving equipment falls in line with this focus. We are pleased to provide the funding for this equipment and provide support to the emergency response teams and citizens of Alexander County.”
Alexander County Sheriff Chad Pennell is pleased to be a grant recipient.
“We appreciate Duke Energy’s continued commitment to community safety,” said Alexander County Sheriff Chad Pennell. “This grant helps us put the right equipment in the hands of our deputies so they can do their jobs safely and effectively.”
About the Duke Energy Foundation:
The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to address the needs of the communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders and has awarded more than $30 million in charitable grants annually.