Governor Henry McMaster has proclaimed September 2026 as Preparedness Month in South Carolina, urging residents, families, and communities, including those in Aiken, to prepare for potential disasters. This initiative, announced on August 28, 2026, emphasizes readiness to protect lives, reduce impacts, and facilitate quicker recovery when emergencies occur.
Throughout September, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) and various county emergency management agencies will conduct public outreach and provide educational resources to promote preparedness. South Carolina faces a range of hazards annually, such as hurricanes, severe storms, flooding, tornadoes, winter weather, and extreme heat. Recent events have underscored the importance of having an emergency plan, assembling an emergency kit, and knowing how to access critical information before, during, and after a disaster.
Governor McMaster noted that emergencies can happen at any time and that South Carolina families understand how rapidly conditions can change. He stated that being prepared before a disaster helps safeguard lives, minimizes impacts, and enables communities to recover more swiftly. Preparedness Month offers an opportunity for every South Carolinian to take straightforward steps toward better preparation.
SCEMD Director Kim Stenson encourages residents to use September as a prompt to review their emergency plans and ensure their households are ready for potential disasters. Stenson highlighted that preparedness does not need to be complex or costly. Simple actions, such as developing a plan, putting together an emergency kit, and understanding one’s hurricane evacuation zone, can significantly impact how individuals and families respond during an emergency. Taking a few minutes now to prepare can help residents and their loved ones react with confidence when it matters most.
During September, SCEMD will disseminate preparedness information via its social media channels and website. Key topics will include creating and updating emergency plans, building emergency supply kits, preparing homes and families for disasters, staying informed through emergency alerts, and preparing pets for emergencies. By taking these proactive steps, individuals and families can help mitigate risks and support their communities during emergencies. Additional preparedness tips and resources are available on the SCEMD website.
