How can I prepare for Hurricane Matthew?
As Hurricane Matthew travels up the coast, Transworld wants to encourage everyone to stay alert and be prepared. We recommend following the Post and Courier, Charleston City Paper, and The Weather Channel for up-to-date news on weather and traffic.
If you are in a coastal area, be sure to #knowyourzone for evacuation. You can visit South Carolina Emergency Management Division to use their maps and links to determine your zone & vulnerability to the storm surge.
Whether you are planning or staying or evacuating, please make sure you and your home is prepared before Hurricane Matthew arrives. No one can predict the potential damages from a hurricane so it’s important to always be prepared.
Before a Hurricane:
To prepare for a hurricane, you should take the following measures:
- Unplug ALL your electronics this includes: computers, flat screens, speaker systems, etc.
- Build an emergency kit and make a family communication plan.
- The kit should include:
- Food (enough for 72 hours)
- Cash
- Water (enough for 72 hours)
- Change of clothes
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Medications
- Generator
- The kit should include:
- Know your surroundings and make plans to secure property
- Cover all you home’s windows and clear rain gutters
- Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed
- Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything that is not tied down
During a Hurricane:
If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should
- Listen to the radio or TV for information
- Secure your home, and bring outdoor objects inside
- Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed
- Turn off propane tank
- Evacuate if you are directed by local authorities to do so and be sure to follow their instructions
After a Hurricane:
Continue listening to a NOAA Weather Radio of the local news for the latest updates
- Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding even after the hurricane or tropical storm has ended
- Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges
- Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company
- If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe
- Inspect your home for damage. Take pictures for insurance purposes.
We will be thinking of all our South Carolina coastal communities throughout the week – be safe.
If you are interested in learning more about hurricane safety and preparedness, we have posted links below.
Am I prepared for a hurricane or tropical storm?
Safety Tips for Hurricane Season in the Lowcountry
