Build Your Emergency Kit While Saving During South Carolina's Tax Free Weekend

Columbia, S.C. – South Carolina’s annual Tax Free Weekend begins Friday, Aug. 7, and continues through Sunday, Aug. 9, giving residents an opportunity to save money while preparing for emergencies.

While many families use the tax free weekend to purchase school supplies and clothing, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) encourages residents to also use the opportunity to build or refresh their emergency supply kits. 

Emergency supply kits should include essential items families may need if they must leave home quickly during a disaster for an extended period of time.

According to the South Carolina Department of Revenue, shoppers can save nearly 6% on qualifying items purchased both online and in stores. Many of these tax free items can also serve as important emergency preparedness supplies.

Suggested items include:

• Clothing: Pack an extra set of clothes, socks, and sturdy shoes for each family member.

• Backpacks: A backpack is a great way to organize and carry emergency supplies.

• School supplies: Notebooks, pens, binder pouches, pencil boxes and sheet protectors for storing copies of important documents can all be useful during emergencies.

• Specific needs items: Families should consider the needs of every household member, including diapers and comfort items for children. Crayons, markers, drawing pads, and books can help keep children occupied during an emergency. For more details on tax exempt items, visit dor.sc.gov/TaxFreeWeekend.

SCEMD encourages all South Carolinians to build an emergency supply kit that includes enough supplies for every household member, including pets.

For additional emergency supply kit recommendations and preparedness information, visit scemd.org.