Welcome To SCEMD

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division, a division of the Military Department, is the coordinating agency responsible for the statewide emergency management program.  SCEMD’s mission is to develop, coordinate, and lead the state emergency management program, enabling effective preparation for, response to and recovery from emergencies and disasters in order to save lives, reduce human suffering and minimize property loss.  South Carolina is threatened by many natural and technological hazards. The threat posed by these hazards is both immediate (e.g., hazardous chemical spill, hurricane, tornado) and long-term (e.g., drought, chronic chemical release). These hazards have the potential to disrupt day-to-day activities, cause extensive property damage, and create mass casualties. Historically, the greatest risk is from natural hazards (e.g., hurricanes, tornadoes, severe storms, floods, earthquakes).  Disasters and emergency situations can happen anytime and anywhere. When disaster strikes, you may not have much time to respond, so it is important that you and your family are prepared. A hurricane, winter storm, earthquake, flood, tornado or any other disaster could cut off utility services for days and lead to evacuations or confine your family to your home. Take time now to understand the types of emergencies that may occur in your community, develop an emergency plan and assemble an emergency supplies kit - helping to keep you, and your family safe.