Bluffton Reissues Storm Preparation Tips Ahead of Tropical Storm Debby
The Town of Bluffton is preparing its residents for Tropical Storm Debby by reissuing storm preparation guidelines and safety recommendations. The Tropical Storm is predicted to impact the area significantly over the next several days, warns the National Weather Service in Charleston.
Impending hurricanes and tropical storms have prompted the town to ensure both new and long-time residents are adequately prepared. Town Manager Stephen Steese urges residents to establish communication and evacuation plans. Steese emphasizes that upon return from an evacuation, initial essential services might still be unavailable, thus advising residents to have 72-hour food and water supply at a minimum, though a week’s supply is preferred.
Community Responsibility
Bluffton’s citizens are encouraged to participate in stormwater infrastructure maintenance. This includes examining every pipe, ditch, and storm drain to prevent blockage leading to potential flooding. “Every resident is encouraged to ensure any ditch, pipe or drain near his or her property is clear of any obstruction”, says Kim Jones, Director of Projects & Watershed Resilience.
Storm Preparedness Recommendations
In order to help the community face the upcoming storm and possible future storm events, a series of checklists and instructions have been provided by the town. This includes advice on practices such as ditch cleaning, skepticism towards unreliable social media information, negotiating expectations with out-of-state employers, and prioritizing patience during this challenging time.
Personal Preparations
Bluffton’s residents are guided to prioritise the 5 P’s: People (Pets), Prescriptions, Paper (important documents), Personal Needs (medications), and Priceless Items (photos, etc.). Additional recommendations include securing your property from loose articles that could cause damage, maintaining a two-week supply of medications, clearing drainage blockages, and knowing evacuation options and routes.
Pet Care
A pet emergency kit is also recommended for local residents that include a week’s supply of food and water, sanitation supplies, an extra leash, and pet vaccination records along with updated ID tags and microchips.
Hurricane Season Information
Tropical Storm Debby’s arrival amidst hurricane season, which runs from June 1st until November 30th, underscores the importance of regular storm preparedness. Residents are also reminded that the Governor of South Carolina is the only authority who can declare an evacuation order and that local, county, and municipal officials are following the Governor’s directive.
Preparation of the Town
In anticipation of hurricanes and tropical storms, the town of Bluffton takes several measures. Town employees attend a hurricane preparedness seminar and the town coordinates with various local and regional agencies to refine hurricane procedures. The town also renews contractor agreements for debris removal and stocks up on necessary supplies and equipment.
