Winter Weather continues in SC

Residents should continue to monitor winter weather conditions and take safety precautions as winter weather affects much of the state. Forecasters with the National Weather Service predict snow and freezing rain in the Upstate and portions of the Midlands throughout today and into this evening. Residents should avoid driving on snow-covered roads. The S.C. Emergency Management Division is monitoring conditions throughout the state in coordination with the S.C. Department of Public Safety, the state Dept. of Transportation, partner state agencies and local emergency managers. As of 10am, there are school closings and/or delays in 25 South Carolina counties for Wednesday. State and county government offices in 15 counties are operating on inclement weather schedules today. Residents should monitor local media and scemd.org for any updates to the state’s status while keeping in mind these safety tips: If local and state public safety officials ask you to take safety precautions, do so immediately. Avoid travel in affected areas. Check local road conditions by calling 511 or visiting scdot.org. If you must travel, be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roadways, which tend to freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges. Check on anyone who may need extra help during winter weather. Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies only. Remember to keep a full charge on your cell phone and mobile devices so that they can be used during an emergency. Power outages are expected to be minimal but possible with this storm. If you lose power, know how to report the outage to your utility company and have alternate, safe means of staying warm. Keep alternative heating sources prepared. If you have a fireplace, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood. Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure your family knows how to use them. Properly vent kerosene heaters and keep any electric generators OUTSIDE and away from any open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Also, do not burn charcoal indoors. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result from charcoal fumes indoors. Never operate a portable generator indoors. Keep fresh batteries on hand to use with flashlights and NOAA tone-alert weather radios. Provide some options for outdoor pets and domestic animals to stay warm. Follow @SCEMD social feeds at www.facebook.com/SCEMD and www.twitter.com/SCEMD. The official South Carolina Severe Winter Weather Guide is available for download at www.scemd.org.