Preparing your home for hurricane season in Columbia, SC is crucial even though it’s inland, because hurricanes and tropical storms can still bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, and tornadoes. Here are practical tips to help you get ready:
🏡 Home Preparation
- Inspect Roof & Gutters:
- Ensure your roof is in good condition and free of loose shingles.
- Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs:
- Cut back dead or weak branches that could fall during high winds.
- Remove debris from your yard.
- Secure Outdoor Items:
- Anchor or bring inside patio furniture, grills, trash cans, and planters.
- Check Doors and Windows:
- Reinforce garage doors; these are vulnerable in windstorms.
- Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood if a storm is approaching.
- Waterproof the Basement (if applicable):
- Use a sump pump with a battery backup.
- Seal cracks in walls and floors to reduce flood risk.
💡 Utilities & Emergency Systems
- Backup Power:
- Consider a generator for power outages. Make sure it’s properly ventilated and tested.
- Check Flashlights & Batteries:
- Stock up on flashlights, lanterns, and extra batteries.
- Fuel Up:
- Fill up gas tanks in cars and gas cans for generators.
- Propane for grills can also serve for emergency cooking.
📦 Emergency Supplies & Planning
- Stock Emergency Supplies:
- Water (1 gallon per person per day for 3–7 days)
- Non-perishable food
- Medications and first aid supplies
- Baby, pet supplies, and hygiene products
- Important Documents:
- Store in a waterproof, portable container (insurance policies, ID, medical info).
- Create a Family Emergency Plan:
- Know your evacuation routes.
- Have a communication plan if cell service is lost.
🌧️ Flood Preparedness
- Know Your Flood Risk:
- Check FEMA flood maps (msc.fema.gov) for your zone.
- Get Flood Insurance:
- Standard homeowner policies don’t cover flooding—purchase separate coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
- Use Sandbags (if needed):
- Have some on hand if your property is prone to flooding.
📱 Stay Informed
- Sign up for local emergency alerts via Richland County Emergency Services or SC Emergency Management Division.
- Keep a battery-powered weather radio tuned to NOAA alerts.
- Monitor trusted sources like The Weather Channel, National Hurricane Center, or local TV/radio stations.
