Consumer Affairs Reminds South Carolinians to Prepare for Hurricane Season

Hurricane Season 2009 begins today and Palmetto State residents know they live in a hurricane-prone area. Anyone remembering 1989’s Hurricane Hugo knows that more than coastal areas are at risk. The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs offers residents these tips to prepare:

· Set up a disaster kit for your home. Stock up on non-perishable food and bottled water to help you and your family for up to 72 hours. Make sure you have important papers, first aid supplies, prescription medicines, and anything else you need on a daily basis in your kit.
o Make a similar kit for your car in case you need to evacuate.
o Don’t forget your pets’ needs! Pack what they need as well.

· Create an emergency plan. Know what to do if you have to evacuate. Make sure you know how to contact members of your family and have emergency contact information for someone living out of state who knows where you are in the event of an emergency.
o Make sure your pets are included in this plan.
o Offer assistance to an elderly or disabled family member of neighbor who may be alone and may need help during an emergency.

· Be informed. Know evacuation routes and listen to local authorities when asked to evacuate. Keep a weather radio, batteries, cell phone and charger handy!

· Know your risks. Whether you live in a coastal community or inland, review your insurance policies. Flooding can happen in any area after a natural disaster and most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.

The Department of Consumer Affairs has recently updated its Hurricane Preparedness Guide. Consumers wanting more information may call the public information division at 803.734.4296 or toll free in SC 1.800.922.1594, or online at www.scconsumer.gov.