Hurricane Helene Cleanup Happening in South Carolina
The upstate of South Carolina is still facing the effects of Hurricane Helene hitting the Carolinas on Thursday and Friday. Crews and state agencies are helping clean up the upstate of South Carolina while many are faced with flooded homes, power outages, and no more hot water. Parts of the state saw tornadoes, flooding, downed power lines, and fallen tree limbs.
Residents in South Carolina who have questions about Helene can now call the state’s toll-free hotline. Operators with the State’s Public Information Phone System are available 24 hours a day for as long as needed. If you are in need of assistance, they are urging you to call the number anytime throughout the day as they continue to help those in South Carolina.
HURRICANE HELENE INFORMATION LINE: 1-866-246-0133
CEMD encourages residents and business owners to remember these important tips:
- Watch Out for Power Lines: Avoid any fallen trees that may be tangled with live wires.
- Stay Out of Flood Water: It may contain hazards that can hurt you or make you sick.
- Avoid Unnecessary Travel: Help emergency workers by staying off the roadways unless absolutely necessary to travel.
- Take Pictures/Document Damage: Before starting cleanup, take pictures of any damage for insurance claims. Contact insurance company. Save all related receipts.
- Protective Gear: Wear sturdy shoes, gloves, eyewear, and a helmet when dealing with debris.
- Consult Waste Management: Contact local authorities about how to properly dispose of trash and debris.
- Residents can request voluntary agency assistance with debris removal, tarping of roof, etc., by registering their need with Crisis Cleanup. Call 1-844-965-1386.
- Discard Unrecoverable Items: Remove items that cannot be cleaned or disinfected properly.
- Use Proper Cleaning Supplies: Most household cleaning products can be used. Follow the label’s directions.
- Licensed Contractors: For professional assistance, use the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation to find licensed contractors at llr.sc.gov.
Click here for the details on clean-up and more information on how South Carolina is dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.