Hurricane Preparedness: Resources available to S.C. businesses

The 2022 hurricane season is officially underway, and according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this year is predicted to be “above-average” with 14 to 21 named storms.

It is critical that residents and businesses be prepared in the event of emergencies and natural disasters. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) works to minimize impacts by providing: preparedness tips before a disaster; on-the-ground efforts during a disaster; and recovery efforts after the storm.

On the business front, the S.C. Department of Commerce works with Emergency Support Function (ESF) – 24 (business and industry) to assist South Carolina businesses in disaster preparedness, response, mitigation and recovery. The program works to minimize business interruptions to get citizens back to work quickly and safely.

Additionally, the S.C. Emergency Management Division recently released its 2022 S.C. Hurricane Guide, which details steps that can be taken before, during and after the landfall of a major hurricane. Residents and businesses are also encouraged to download the SC Emergency Manager mobile app to use for emergency planning, follow SCEMD on social media and monitor local media outlets.

Advanced preparation – in all forms – safeguards lives, protects property and returns business to normal. If your business is interested in continuity planning, hosting a workshop or being added to an ESF-24 notification list, please email [email protected].