Prepare for Hurricane Season Now
May 31, 2021If recent history has taught us anything, it’s this: Hurricanes can hit the Lowcountry. So "be prepared" should be your motto. Unfortunately, we still have to consider how to keep our families safe from COVID-19 as we prepare for the storm that we hope won’t come. (If an evacuation is issued, your first priority is to protect yourself and family from the hurricane.)
COVID Considerations
As you prepare, take these precautions to protect yourself and others from spreading the disease.
Vaccination
You can protect yourself and any family members age 12 and older by getting vaccinated. Still unsure about the vaccine? Get answers to common questions or speak with your primary care provider.
Time
Don't wait until a storm is on its way to start preparing. Begin collecting supplies now to avoid crowded stores.
It may also be important to allow extra time to evacuate as you may have to travel further to reach a shelter or hotel with available space.
Space
Consider safe distancing in your plans and, if you evacuate, follow safety precautions for travelers.
People
Even if you've been vaccinated, minimize the number of people you must interact with during and after an evacuation. If you'll be staying with friends or family during an evacuation, discuss vaccination status and the precautions you'll all take to protect each other from COVID-19. When you check on neighbors and friends, protect each other by maintaining six feet of distance and wearing face coverings/masks.
Place
Know where you will go if an evacuation order is issued. Fewer people may be allowed in each emergency shelter to enable safe distancing. Shelter information is available on the SC Emergency Manager mobile app (Found in the Apple App Store and in Google Play), SC Emergency Management website, as well as county websites (Beaufort County, Jasper County, Hampton County).
Items to Prepare
Some essentials to have at the ready in case a storm comes our way:
- A list of emergency numbers
- CodeRED Emergency Alert registration
- COVID-19 precautionary supplies, including:
- Hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol
- Bar or liquid soap
- Disinfectant wipes
- An adequate number of face coverings/masks for each person in your household (Children under 2 years old, people who have trouble breathing and those who cannot take a face covering off without help should not wear them.)
- An ample supply of any prescription medications and/or portable oxygen tanks (for evacuation travel or power outages)
- Plenty of cash (small bills are best)
- Matches and multipurpose lighters
- Enough nonperishable food to last a week
- Oranges, grapefruits and apples (nutritious and don’t require refrigeration)
- Several thermoses for filling with coffee just before a storm hits (option: a stock of cold brew)
- Plastic utensils and paper plates
- Toilet paper and paper towels
- Rain gear and a change of clothes
- One or more large coolers with wheels and plenty of freezer packs
- Disposable toothbrushes, liquid hand sanitizer, baby wipes and disposable disinfecting surface wipes
- A large, watertight container for garbage
- Plenty of small and large Ziploc bags
- A well-stocked first-aid kit
- Bug repellent and insect bite treatment
- Several hand-held fans
- Solar-powered exterior pathway lights to charge during the day and use inside at night for additional lighting
For in-depth information on hurricane preparation, download the current South Carolina Hurricane Guide.
Stay safe!