SCEMD Advises Columbia Residents on Proper 911 Use During Storm Helene

SCEMD Urges Caution: When to Call 911 During Helene

As the winds pick up and the skies darken here in Columbia, South Carolina, residents are feeling the pressure of Storm Helene. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) has put out an important message as we prepare for the storm’s impact. If you’re thinking about calling 911, it’s crucial to remember that not all calls are appropriate at this time.

What’s the Deal with 911 Calls?

SCEMD is advising everyone to reserve 911 for life-threatening emergencies only. This means that if you find yourself in a serious situation where you or someone else could be in danger, you should absolutely call for help. However, if you want to report storm damage to your property or let someone know about a power outage, it’s best to hold off on dialing those three digits.

In a recent post on social media platform X, which many people still call Twitter, SCEMD emphasized, “Do not call 911 to report storm damage to your property or report power outages.” It’s a friendly reminder, really, pointing out that 911 operators are likely overwhelmed as they focus on assisting those who are in real danger due to the storm.

So, What Should You Do?

If you face any life-threatening emergency, such as a medical situation or a fire, don’t hesitate to call 911 for help. But for everything else—like minor storm damage or outages—there’s a better way to get assistance. SCEMD has provided an alternative number to call: 803-737-8500.

This line is dedicated to handling non-emergency calls, which can help ensure that 911 remains available for those who really need it. It’s a simple switch that can make a big difference in how quickly help arrives for critical situations.

Staying Informed and Prepared

During challenging times like this, it’s essential to stay informed. SCEMD encourages everyone to keep up with the latest information about Helene and its aftermath. People can subscribe to local alerts, check websites for updates, and even think about downloading helpful apps that provide weather and emergency information right at your fingertips.

Being prepared can make navigating a storm much easier, and knowing who to contact can help everyone stay safe. Keeping the lines of communication clear is key as we all work together during this stormy weather.

Final Tips

So, as we brace for the winds and the rains, just keep in mind: emergencies call for 911; everything else? Try that new number! Let’s all do our part to ensure that help gets to those who really need it, and let’s try to stay connected in this stormy moment.

Be safe out there, Columbia! We’re all in this together, and every small action contributes to the bigger picture. Remember to check on your neighbors, stock up on essentials, and keep your emergency kits ready. Here’s hoping the storm passes without too much trouble!