Hurricane Helene Cleanup in South Carolina

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September 28, 2024

Crews with state and local agencies are assessing damage caused by Hurricane Helene and coordinating response efforts to South Carolina’s hardest hit areas. Parts of the state saw tornadoes, flooding, downed powerlines 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 have questions about Helene, such as about the state’s response or safety precautions you should take, call this information line:

HURRICANE HELENE INFORMATION LINE: 1-866-246-0133

As citizens begin clean-up efforts, SCEMD encourages residents and business owners to remember these important tips:

  1. Watch Out for Power Lines: Avoid any fallen trees that may be tangled with live wires.
  2. Stay Out of Flood Water: It may contain hazards that can hurt you or make you sick.
  3. Avoid Unnecessary Travel: Help emergency workers by staying off the roadways unless absolutely necessary to travel.
  4. Take Pictures/Document Damage: Before starting cleanup, take pictures of any damage for insurance claims. Contact insurance company. Save all related receipts.
  5. Protective Gear: Wear sturdy shoes, gloves, eyewear, and a helmet when dealing with debris.
  6. Consult Waste Management: Contact local authorities about how to properly dispose of trash and debris.
    1. 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.
  7. Discard Unrecoverable Items: Remove items that cannot be cleaned or disinfected properly.
  8. Use Proper Cleaning Supplies: Most household cleaning products can be used. Follow the label’s directions.
  9. Licensed Contractors: For professional assistance, use the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation to find licensed contractors at llr.sc.gov.

Residents can also use the Damage Assessment tool in the SC Emergency Manager app to report property damage to authorities. Download the app on the App Store and on Google Play: http://onelink.to/dn92rx.

Power outages remain widespread and should be reported to the local electricity provider for your area.

 

For more information, visit scemd.org.