Winter Weather Preparedness

As you may be aware, South Carolina is expected to face severe winter weather, and it is highly encouraged that all South Carolinians take measures to prepare for below freezing conditions. In order to prepare yourself and your home for these conditions, it is always best to plan ahead.

Please find several resources below which can be helpful to you as winter weather approaches our area:

• Find out how to be prepared before, during, and after inclement weather.
• Create a winter weather emergency preparedness plan.
• Listen to local TV broadcasts, local radio, or NOAA Weather Radio in an emergency.
• Create an emergency supply kit. Homes with senior citizens should include medications or other necessary supplies.
• Sign up to receive emergency alerts to your mobile device for your area.
• Ensure you are safe and prepared while driving by consulting S.C. Highway Patrol's hazardous weather driving tips.
• Any closings and/or delayed openings of state government offices will be posted at scemd.org/closings and broadcast on SCETV television and radio.
• In the event of a medical or life-threatening emergency, please dial 911.

The safety and wellbeing of all South Carolinians is of the utmost importance to me. You may also find these tips from the S.C. Emergency Management Division helpful:

• Check on anyone who may need extra help during winter weather.
• Remember to keep a full charge on your cell phone and mobile devices so that they can be used during an emergency.
• Motorists should be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roadways, which tend to freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
• Power outages are expected to be minimal but possible with this storm. If you lose power, know how to report the outage to your utility company and have alternate, safe means of staying warm.
• Monitor local media for information about warming shelters that have been opened by county emergency managers.
• Keep alternative heating sources prepared. If you have a fireplace, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood. Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure your family knows how to use them.
• Properly vent kerosene heaters and keep any electric generators OUTSIDE and away from any open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Also, do not burn charcoal indoors. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result from charcoal fumes indoors.
• Never operate a portable generator indoors.
• Keep fresh batteries on hand to use with flashlights and NOAA tone-alert weather radios.
• Provide some options for outdoor pets and domestic animals to stay warm.
• Follow @SCEMD social feeds at www.facebook.com/SCEMD and www.twitter.com/SCEMD
• The official South Carolina Severe Winter Weather Guide is available at www.scemd.org

As winter weather approaches the Second Congressional District, it is my hope that you and your family remain safe and take advantage of the services that are available to you.