Prepare & Protect: Tips for a Safer Hurricane Season in Charleston, SC

Hurricane season looms and property owners shudder at the possibility of a hurricane striking in Charleston, SC. During the Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 to November 30), many U.S. territories can be affected by hurricanes, including the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastal areas and areas over 100 miles inland. With wind speeds ranging from 75 mph to over 150 mph, hurricanes may cause immense damage due to storm surge, flooding, and strong winds. While hurricanes can be devastating, preparing for them can save lives and help reduce the ensuing property damage. Here are essential tips to protect yourself, your family, and your home from a hurricane.

A hurricane or tropical storm is a powerful and unpredictable storm that can cause immense damage along its path. Being ready before one hits is critical to stay safe and protect your property. Check out how to prepare and what to do before during and after a hurricane.

Emergency Kit

FEMA recommends that you gather the following supplies, including:

• Create an emergency kit that includes the following items:
  • Water and non-perishable food (three-day supply
    for evacuation, two-week supply for home).
    Have one gallon of water per person per day.
  • Battery-operated radio
  • Flashlight
  • Spare batteries
  • First-aid supplies
  • A seven-day supply of medication
  • Multipurpose tools
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Personal documents
  • Emergency contact information
  • Blankets and extra clothing
  • Pet supplies
  • Local maps
  • Lighter or matches

Before the Hurricane

• Make a home evacuation plan for all the household members, including pets. Discuss how to prepare for a hurricane and establish how you would work together as a team. Practice the plan!

• Learn the hurricane evacuation routes and shelter locations in your community. Determine where to evacuate and how to get there. Find out more information from your local emergency management agency.

• Get flood insurance, which is separate from homeowners insurance, at least one month before the hurricane season via the National Flood Insurance Program. Learn more at FEMA.
• Find out whether your property is flood-prone due to its elevation level. In the low country, we can alway expect flooding in Down Town Charleston.

• Maintain your vehicle. When a hurricane is 36 hours from arriving, ensure your gas tank is full and stock your vehicle with emergency supplies in case you need to evacuate.
• Store copies of important documents in your disaster kit, such as proof of ownership of any property.
• Back up the data on your electronic devices to ensure they’re secure.

• Secure your property:
  • Trim the trees and shrubs around your home.
  • Securely fasten your roof by installing straps or additional clips.
  • Clear and repair gutters and downspouts.
  • Reinforce your garage door.
  • Have an electric generator in the event of a power outage. Keep the generator at least 20 feet away from windows and doors, and protect it from moisture.
  • Learn where and how to shut off utilities in your home.
  • Cover your home’s windows and doors with plywood or storm shutters and bring loose, outdoor items inside 18-36 hours before the hurricane arrives.
    

• Make sure to take pictures and/or videos of the exterior and interior of your home. Make sure to take photos of every room, and document your contents and valuables.

DURING A HURRICANE

If authorities advise or order you to evacuate your area, take your emergency disaster kit and leave immediately. Strictly follow posted evacuation routes and do not try to take shortcuts.

If you are outside and the storm approaches, get indoors as soon as possible to avoid being hit by flying debris.

• If your home is on low-lying ground, move to higher ground. If you’re in a mobile home, go to the nearest safe shelter.
• While, indoors, stay away from windows, skylights, and glass doors. Find a safer spot to stay in, such as an interior room or a bathroom on the lower level.
• During the storm, winds and rain may damage electrical wiring. To avoid fire hazards and electrical shocks, don’t use electrical appliances.
• If your home is at risk of flooding, turn off electricity at the main circuit breaker. Don’t turn on electricity until local officials have advised you to do so.
• Never use gaoline-powered or charcoal-burning devices inside to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep those devices outside.
• If trapped in a building that’s flooding, go to the highest level. Don’t climb into a closed attic, as rising floodwater may trap you.
• Lightning is also a safety risk. Stay safe from lightning in your home during a storm by NOT using the shower, phone, or electrical equipment.
• Be aware that the eye of the storm may pass over your area, during which the storm will calm. The storm can start again without warning.
• Stay indoors until the local officials have announced that the storm is over. Listen to the radio or turn on the TV (if safe to do so) to get the latest updates.

Hurricane Safety Tips – After

Listen to authorities for information and social instructions.

• Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through the water. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Floodwater may also contain contaminants, dangerous debris, or downed power lines.
• enter a damaged building only after a professional has inspected the electrical system, gas lines, and plumbing for damage.
• Take photos of any property damage and contact your insurance company for assistance. Wear protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, rubber boots, and masks when inspecting your home.
• Don’t touch wet electrical equipment, especially if you’re standing in water.
• Throw out food that has been exposed to floodwaters or has not been maintained at a proper temperature. When in doubt, throw it out.
• Don’t drink tap water if you’re not sure it’s safe.

Our Crew & man’s best friend, Bailey

In the aftermath of a storm, professional damage restoration companies like PuroClean of Charleston are key in getting properties back in order. Our team of certified restoration professionals can safely and efficiently restore any property and its contents. PuroClean stands ready to assist in recovery after property damage from hurricanes, such as those resulting from water, fire, mold, and biohazard.