While September has been somewhat calm in the Atlantic for storm development, emergency preparedness officials are urging citizens to be prepared for any severe weather or storms that might come their
way.
September has been recognized as National Preparedness Month since 2004 and was established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Awareness, preparedness and preventative planning for possible natural disasters or other emergencies is the focus for the month.
Hurricane preparedness, officials said, remains important as the hurricane season began June 1 and runs until Nov. 30 this year.
“Emergencies can happen at any time, and a little preparation can make a big difference,” a Town of Bluffton spokesperson said.
The town offered several tips to keep citizens safe such as making a family emergency plan, building or refreshing your emergency kit, knowing your evacuation zone and signing up for local emergency alerts. It is also important, the spokesperson said, to keep important documents in a safe place so that you know where they are in case of an emergency.
Jasper County Fire Rescue also wanted to encourage citizens to be prepared.
“Now more than ever, it's important to make sure you and your family are prepared before severe weather threatens our area,” a Jasper County Fire-Rescue spokesperson said. “Take time to review your emergency plan, build a disaster supply kit and stay informed.”
For those in Jasper County or even the surrounding counties, the Jasper County Fire-Rescue Facebook page and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) are available to view and provide resources for hurricane safety and preparedness information throughout the season.
Emergency officials in Jasper County also discussed the importance of being safe throughout any tropical storms which might develop during the hurricane season.
“Tropical storms and hurricanes can bring dangerous conditions including strong winds, heavy flooding, storm surge, tornadoes, and widespread power outages,” a Jasper County Fire-Rescue spokesperson said. “Understanding these hazards before a storm threatens our area can help keep you and your family safe.”
Officials also pointed to the need to understanding the difference between a tropical storm watch and tropical storm warning.
“A Tropical Storm Watch means tropical storm conditions are possible within the next 48 hours,” the spokesperson said. “A Tropical Storm Warning means tropical storm conditions are expected within the next 36 hours.”
When warnings are issued, strong winds can make outdoor preparations difficult or dangerous, the spokesperson said.
“Stay informed, make a plan, and be Weather-Ready,” the spokesperson said.
Hampton County Emergency Preparedness officials also stressed the importance of protecting your home and family as well as businesses and other structures in the area.
“Hurricanes and tropical storms can bring a variety of hazards, including storm surge, damaging winds, flooding, tornadoes, and power outages,” a Hampton County Emergency Preparedness spokesperson said. “Now is the time to review the risks that could affect your home, business, or community and make sure you're prepared.”
Those interested in more information about how to prepare for storms can learn more at https://hurricane.sc/
This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Emergency officials urge storm preparedness
