State officials join together for Winter Weather Preparedness Week

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — November 30th through December 6th is known as “Winter Weather Preparedness Week” across South Carolina.

The annual effort serves as a reminder for citizens to plan ahead for any hazardous conditions that may come our way.

While officials say we can expect warmer and drier than normal temperatures across the South this winter, inclement weather is still always possible, and it’s best to be prepared.

Trisha Palmer with the National Weather Service says the warmer and drier conditions will be due to La Nina weather patterns — but cold outbreaks and individual weather storms are still possible.

“So while the overall average this winter may be warmer and drier, keep in mind all it takes is one winter storm to make it a bad winter. So please prepare now so that you and your family will be safe this winter season,” says Palmer.

Leaders say that means having a plan for your home, business, and vehicles, and keeping track of supplies.

In the event of a power outage, have at least three days of extra food and water on hand.

Insulate your home’s exposed pipes, and allow your faucets to drip when temperatures are expected to reach 20 degrees farenheit or lower.

And when it comes to alternate sources of heat — keep space heaters at least three feet away from nearby furniture, have your chimney inspected for creosote build-up before use, and only use generators outside.

“Every winter we see tragic fires that could’ve been prevented. And heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires when used incorrectly,” says Chief Jonathan Jones.

Road trips in hazardous weather can be just as dangerous.

Rob Woods, Director of the SC Department of Public Safety, encourages travelers to keep blankets, food and water, and flares in their vehicles in case of an emergency.

“Before winter weather hits, thoroughly check your vehicle. Pay close attention to your tires, to your brakes, and ensuring that there’s adequate fluid in the vehicles and that all the lights in the vehicle are operational,” says Woods.

Governor Henry McMaster stressed that deaths occur when citizens aren’t careful and are unprepared.

“Understanding — it can be dangerous and we don’t want it to happen to any of our people,” he says.

For help with a winter weather plan, visit the SC Emergency Management Division here. You can also download the SCEMD mobile app on your phone.

For more information on La Nina weather patterns, visit the National Weather Service here.

For more information on road safety, visit the SC Department of Public Safety here and find more information from the SC Department of Transportation, including information on their 501 app, here. You can also call 1-855-GO-SCDOT for details.

Fire safety tips by the SC Fire Marshal can be found here.