Important Safety Guidelines Issued by SCEMD Ahead of Hurricane Helene

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Important Guidance Ahead of Helene

As storm clouds gather over South Carolina, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) is stepping up to give us all the information we need to stay safe this hurricane season. In a recent announcement, SCEMD has emphasized the importance of using our emergency resources wisely, especially as Hurricane Helene makes its way toward the coast. They’re urging everyone to only call 911 for true emergencies. It’s super important for us to help keep those phone lines clear!

Understanding 911 Calls

Here’s the deal: when it comes to storm damage or power outages, the SCEMD is asking us not to dial 911. They shared this message on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, reminding us that “911 operators can’t do anything about it and will be pretty busy trying to get help to people in danger.” They want to ensure that the operators are free to focus on life-threatening situations that require immediate assistance, like medical emergencies or dangerous situations caused by the storm.

Know When to Call

So what should you do when the storm hits? If you find yourself in a life-threatening emergency, then definitely call 911. However, SCEMD has set up another line for non-emergency situations. If you face issues like storm damage or power outages, you should call 803-737-8500. This way, you won’t tie up the important emergency lines and will still be able to report what you need to without delay.

Get Prepared and Stay Safe

Preparation is key for weathering this storm, so here are a few tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe:

• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the news and weather updates. Knowing the latest information can help you make smart decisions during the storm.
• Emergency Kit: Make sure you have a stocked emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights, and batteries.
• Safe Shelter: Identify a safe place in your home or nearby where you can go in case things get rough.
• Power Outages: Have a plan for if the power goes out, including how to keep perishable foods safe and how to stay comfortable.

Stay Connected

It’s always a good idea to stay connected with your family and friends through this storm. Communication can be a lifeline, and sharing information about safety and well-being can help all of us cope with any storms that come our way.

Feeling overwhelmed with how to handle Hurricane Helene? Don’t worry – you’re not alone! The SCEMD is here to guide us through this challenging time. If you want to keep receiving updates and helpful information, consider subscribing to local newsletters or downloading community apps. These tools can help you stay informed, prepared, and connected throughout the storm.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while storms can be scary, being prepared is the best way to ensure everyone’s safety. Let’s remember to use 911 responsibly and follow the guidance from the SCEMD. Together as a community, we can weather this storm and come out stronger on the other side! Stay safe out there, Columbia!