Hurricane Watch Prep
Good Morning!
As there is still some uncertainty of the level of impact Hurricane Dorian may have here in the Low Country, the Association wanted to mention a few items to keep in mind – hopefully these measures will not be needed but good items to know.
To make sure that all the HOA needs are addressed in preparation for the storm, below are items that are already being addressed include the following (some of these may not pertain to your community):
- Elevators being parked on the second floor during storms and turned back on for normal operation after storms
- Irrigation systems shut down prior to storm and being turned back on pending the amount of flooding
- Pond fountains will be turned off
- Pools will be shut down with all furniture and items stored in either the storage areas or restrooms. Pools will reopen when safe to do so
- It will be important for all residents to secure all outside items at your home including furniture, lawn art and lawn debris!! Unsecured items can become flying missiles causing damage to your home, your neighbor’s home and any vehicles stored outside
- Also important is to have on hand copies of your personal insurance policies so any claim for storm damage can be immediately reported to your agent for any non HOA related incident
- Builders are aware of the need to insure their construction sites are clear of any debris that could cause damage
Please be aware that FirstService Residential’s normal day to day operations including our business hours may be affected in the event of a major named storm or hurricane. This will also be true for vendors that regularly service your community including landscapers and pool vendors. Further updates will be provided as needed
We will continue to hope the impact will be minimal. Below is a list FEMA suggests for an emergency basic supply list for events such as Florence – please prepare and stay safe:
Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both Flashlight and extra batteries First aid kit Whistle to signal for help Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food) Local maps
FEMA also notes you may want to consider gathering these items as well:
Prescription medications and glasses Infant formula and diapers Pet food and extra water for your pet Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container Cash or traveler’s checks and change Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners. Fire Extinguisher Matches in a waterproof container Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels Paper and pencil Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
The S.C. Emergency Management Department recommends fully charging your cell phone and other mobile devices before the hurricane approaches and to limit non-essential calls. And remember, call 911 only for real emergencies.
County Resources
Berkeley County Citizen’s Information Hotline: (843) 719-4800
Berkeley County Emergency Preparedness Department: (843) 719-4800, (843) 719-4166 or (843) 719-4047
Berkeley County Water and Sanitation: (843) 572-4400
Charleston County Citizen’s Information Hotline: (843) 746-3900
Charleston County Emergency Management Department: (843) 746-3800
Charleston Water System: (843) 727-6800
Dorchester County Citizen’s Information Hotline: (843) 832-0393
Dorchester County Emergency Services Department: (843) 832-0341
Dorchester County Water and Sewer Department: (843) 832-0075 or (843) 563-0075
Nonprofit Organizations
American Red Cross Carolina Lowcountry Chapter: (843) 764-2323
Disabilities Resource Center (for mobility issues assistance): (843)225-5080
Power Companies
Santee Cooper (to report a power outage): 1-888-769-7688
Dominion Energy (for downed and sparking power lines): 1-888-333-4465
Dominion Energy (for suspected gas leaks): 1-800-815-0083
Dominion Energy (to report a power outage): 1-888-333-4465
State Agencies
SCDHEC (for medical needs assistance): (843) 953-0038
SCDOT (for evacuation traffic information): (888) 877-9151.