Now is the Time to Prepare for Hurricane Season

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By Congressman Joe Wilson

Hurricane season has officially begun in South Carolina and it is important for residents of our coastal state to prepare. South Carolinians should put time and effort into developing a plan for hurricanes and tropical storms because your safety and security is of the highest importance.

Keep these resources in mind when planning for extreme weather. I urge all to take precautions during this hurricane season and to seek additional information and resources so that you and your family will be safe if a storm hits the state. Please let us know if our office can help.

Important Hurricane Resources

South Carolina Emergency Management Division
www.scemd.org

South Carolina Hurricane Guide
https://hurricane.sc

Report a Power Outage
www.scemd.org/stay-informed/report-power-outages/

County Government Resources
Aiken County Office of Emergency Management
803-642-1623
Barnwell County Emergency Management Agency
803-541-1001
Lexington County Emergency Management Division
803-785-8359
Orangeburg County Office of Emergency Services
803-533-6265
Richland County Emergency Services
803-576-3400

Prepare for Hurricane and Storm Season in South Carolina
REMEMBER THESE T.I.P.S.

  1. Terms: A “watch” is a notification for residents to be on alert of a potential storm, and a “warning” indicates that a hurricane is expected in your area. Review the South Carolina Hurricane Guide for more information.
  2. Insurance and important information: Review your insurance plans and have copies of important documents, such as driver’s licenses, medical information, and insurance cards.
  3. Plan ahead: Create a family plan in the event that an evacuation is necessary and keep emergency contact information handy. Don’t forget to consider your pets when planning for a possible evacuation.
  4. Supplies: Plan ahead by creating emergency kits filled with survival necessities such as bottled water, non-perishable snacks, medication, batteries, blankets, crank radios, personal hygiene items, and flashlights. DURING A STORM
  5. Listen: Listen to local radio and television broadcasts for current conditions and recommended actions. You can also sign up to receive emergency alerts on your mobile device.
  6. Evacuate: When directed by local authorities, you may be required to evacuate. Know your designated evacuation route in advance.
  7. Shelter: If you are unable to evacuate, seek shelter in an interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.

AFTER A STORM

  1. Be aware of dangers: Be cautious of potential dangers, such as downed power lines, contaminated water, or possible gas leaks.
  2. Document damage: If possible, take photos of the damage on your property or residence, in addition to making written notes.
  3. Seek assistance: Contact the South Carolina Emergency Management Division at (803) 737-8500 to see what relief or recovery programs may be available for your area.
  4. Be cautious of scams: Be alert to possible disaster-related scams such as fraudulent phone calls or price gouging. Do not give any personal information, including credit card and bank account information to unverified callers.
  • Build a Disaster Supply Kit
  • Water, two gallons of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
  • Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
  • Flashlight and extra batteries.
  • First aid kit.
  • Whistle to signal for help.
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
  • Manual can opener for food (if kit contains canned food).
  • Local maps.
  • Cell phone with chargers.
  • Prescription medications and glasses.
  • Infant formula and diapers.
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet.
  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.
  • Family emergency contact information.
  • Cash or traveler’s checks and change.
  • For more information visit: https://hurricane.sc/supplies

Photo: Congressman Joe Wilson at SC Emergency Operations Center in Columbia with U.S. Army support team.