Hurricane season is a very real threat to us here in the Lowcountry. The most important thing you can do is to be informed & prepared. Disaster prevention includes both being prepared as well as reducing damages.

In the event that you are planning to leave your residence during a named storm, please take a moment to review the following tips to make accidents less likely and your return home more pleasant.

  1. UNPLUG ALL OF YOUR APPLIANCES AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT.
  2. EMPTY YOUR REFRIGERATOR AND LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN. SPOILED FOOD CAN BE MUCH MORE UNPLEASANT TO COME HOME TO THAN YOU REALIZE.
  3. SECURE ALL OUTSIDE PROPERTY THAT COULD BE BLOWN AWAY OR BECOME A DANGEROUS FLYING PROJECTILE. THIS COULD INCLUDE BIKES, PATIO FURNITURE, GRILLS, ETC..
  4. IF YOU ARE RENTING, DO NOT TAPE OR BOARD UP WINDOWS. THIS CAN ACTUALLY CAUSE MORE DAMAGE TO THE WINDOWS OR SIDING OF THE HOUSE.
  5. PREPARE A STORAGE TUB WITH FLASHLIGHTS, BATTERIES, BLANKETS, WATER, NON-PERISHABLE FOODS, BABY SUPPLIES, MEDICATIONS, ETC..PLAN ENOUGH TO LAST FOR THE FIRST 7 DAYS.
  6. DON’T FORGET YOUR PETS. PUT TOGETHER A SUPPLY KIT INCLUDING PET FOOD, BOTTLED WATER, MEDICATIONS, BOWLS, TREATS AND SOME FAVORITE TOYS.
  7. PLAN AHEAD AND KNOW YOUR COASTAL EVACUATION ROUTES.

Important notes to remember:

Homeowner’s insurance covers the structure of the home only. Please be sure to review your renters policy for adequate coverage of your personal property.

If you are in the path of a storm we ask that you pay close attention to the local forecasts for the most up to date information and storm track. Please follow all recommended and mandatory course of actions from local and state officials. We also strongly encourage everyone to get a Hurricane Preparedness Guide and create your own plan. They will be most helpful in being prepared for a hurricane or natural disaster.

 

Links for more information:

http://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

http://www.dorchestercounty.net/index.aspx?page=209

http://www.berkeleycountysc.gov/hurricane

http://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/emergency-management/hurricane.php#hpg
http://www.scemd.org/planandprepare/disasters/hurricanes