The following information reflects South Carolina’s preparedness to respond to the possible effects of Tropical Storm Hanna, as of 3 p.m. EDT on Thursday, September 04, 2008:
- 76 law enforcement officers with the Department of Public Safety have been deployed to traffic control points along evacuation routes. Additional law enforcement officers are on standby and will be deployed if needed.
- The South Carolina National Guard has 2500 guardsmen on duty until 5 p.m. Thursday. After that time, 160 will remain on standby.
- The Department of Transportation has authorized oversized and overweight restriction waivers for all large trucks carrying supplies for the states impacted Hurricanes Fay and Gustav.
- DOT has also contacted construction companies involved with road projects to insure potential evacuation routes will be clear.
- DHEC has identified healthcare professionals who have volunteered for disasters through the state’s SC Serve program. These professionals include doctors, nurses, pharmacists and social workers.
- DHEC has SC Med mobile medical units equipped with cots, first aid supplies, and air conditioning, which can provide temporary treatment centers for the injured. Since these units are mobile, they can be moved to areas where they are of most benefit to those who need them.
- DHEC has established Rapid Needs Assessment Teams that assess conditions and community needs following a disaster. These teams are composed of representatives from numerous disciplines across public health, including environmental health professionals, nurses, social workers and administrative support. They review community conditions and needs, providing feedback to DHEC’s Emergency Operations Center for effective and efficient allocation of resources to the area.
- The American Red Cross has opened three shelters. DHEC is operating special medical needs shelters in affected areas.
- The State Emergency Response Team is currently activated for around-the-clock operations.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement