Report Winter Storm Damage to Emergency Management Officials

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina residents are urged to report damage from the recent winter storm using the free SC Emergency Manager app. Submitting damage reports through the app helps state and local officials assess the storm’s impact and plan recovery efforts. The app is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

As cleanup efforts begin, SCEMD encourages residents and business owners to follow these important safety tips:

• Watch Out for Power Lines: Avoid fallen trees that may be tangled with live wires.
• Take Pictures/Document Damage: Before starting cleanup, take photos of any damage for insurance claims, contact your insurance company, and save all related receipts.
• Protective Gear: Wear sturdy shoes, gloves, eyewear, and a helmet when handling debris.
• Consult Waste Management: Contact local authorities about how to properly dispose of trash and debris.
• Licensed Contractors: For professional assistance, use the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation to find licensed contractors at llr.sc.gov.

Residents who need help clearing storm-related damage can also call the Crisis Cleanup hotline at 844-965-1386. Contact information left with the hotline will be shared with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups, and faith-based organizations who may be able to assist with debris removal, tree cleanup, muck-outs, and tarping. Services are provided at no cost; however, assistance is not guaranteed due to high demand. The Crisis Cleanup hotline will remain available through Friday, Feb. 13, 2026.

For more information, visit scemd.org or download the SC Emergency Manager app today.