Living in a coastal area the risk of experiencing a hurricane is always there (at least from June 1 – November 1). In the event of such an emergency personal safety of residents, visitors and first responders is priority number one. Take a moment to review our hurricane preparedness tips and ensure you are prepared should a storm threaten our area.
Your emergency kit should include:
- 3-day supply of drinking water for each person in your home and non-perishable food
- Spare clothing, blankets and pillows
- Toiletries, first-aid kit and prescription medicines
- Special items/food for babies and the elderly
- Pet food/supplies
- Flashlights, NWR, portable radio and extra batteries
- Extra set of car keys, credit cards and cash
(If possible, it’s a good idea to keep these items on hand in a plastic storage container at all times.)
Other tips:
- Make sure your and fill your vehicles with gas.
- Fill bathtubs with water (for flushing toilets). You can also fill your washing machine.
- Take important documents with you should you evacuate (social security cards, insurance policies, etc.).
- Know your “zone” and heed any evacuation orders. Once conditions get to a certain level of intensity, emergency services will no longer be available for response.
- Most shelters do not take pets, so be sure you have a plan in place for your furry family members.
Helpful Hurricane Preparedness Links for the Grand Strand Area:
This link takes you to WPDE’s (ABC) hurricane central. There you will find discussion of the current situation from chief meteorologist, Ed Piotrowski, tips for before, during, and after the storm, Guide to Survival FAQs, a tracking map, and additional links to even more information:
WPDE Hurricane Center
WPDE Hurricane Center
Hurricane preparedness and “know your zone” information from Horry County’s emergency management department:
This site gives guidance for coping with the storm, along with tips for preparation and a family disaster plan checklist:
The Horry Telephone Cooperative site provides valuable storm tips:
With proper preparedness and awareness loss of life in a hurricane should be non-existent. Again, stay alert of conditions, be weather aware and above all, stay safe!
Christi Wickliffe-Bessinger
Advertising and Marketing Manager
Garden City Realty, Inc.
