Illnesses caused by bacteria in water and food can be a serious problem caused by a hurricane or flood. Both loss of power and flooding pose a threat to your water and food supplies. In high water and flooding, food, water and utensils can be contaminated with bacteria, sewage and/or chemical spillage. In a power outage, frozen and refrigerated foods can be contaminated with bacteria that will grow once the temperature of the food gets above 40°F.
It's important that you stay informed before, during and after a hurricane. So, you need to know what warning systems and information resources are available to you. These systems and resources include:
The following sites provide up-to-date information for South Carolina:
Shelters are generally the place of last resort. SCDES recommends that individuals who need to evacuate have plans already in place to stay with family, friends or in a hotel in the event of a disaster. No emergency shelter will have the amenities and flexibilities that you have at home. When planning for an evacuation, consider what aids may be needed for daily living. (Refer to evacuation zones here.
The hours and days immediately following a hurricane or flood can be especially dangerous. Of all deaths that are related to a hurricane, up to 77 percent are caused by drowning. Add to that the lack of power plus any damage sustained in the winds, and you have many concerns about the health and safety of yourself and your family.
You should create a kit with emergency survival supplies that you may need during and after disasters such as hurricanes. Here are some of the items that your kit should include:
In planning for hurricane season, do not forget your pets. If an evacuation is necessary, the Humane Society of the United States urges pet owners to make arrangements to evacuate their animals. Most official shelters do not allow pets. If you have to evacuate, make other plans for your pets, such as staying with family friends, veterinarians, or kennels in safe locations.
The following are some planning tips for pets, prior to an evacuation:
What to do if you tested POSITIVE for COVID-19 and are still in isolation at home OR you were in CLOSE CONTACT with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 and are still in quarantine at home
When working on cleanup and rebuilding efforts after a severe weather event, it's important to be aware of potential asbestos-containing materials that could pose a health risk if not handled properly. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials during building repairs, renovations, or demolitions can release asbestos fibers or dust particles into the air, allowing them to be ingested or inhaled.
