David Jones

This plan describes important considerations for South Carolina's community lifeline sectors following a long-term power outage (LTPO). It details potential impacts, critical information requirements, and outlines decision points across various sectors including emergency services, mass care, health/medical, energy, communications, transportation, hazardous materials, and water/wastewater.

The South Carolina Winter Weather Plan provides a framework methodology for the coordinated and efficient response to, and recovery from, the effects of a winter weather event within the state. It defines roles and responsibilities for intergovernmental and State Emergency Response Team personnel to save lives, protect property, and assist the private sector in facilitating recovery. The plan also focuses on maintaining essential services and identifying duties by Emergency Support Function during winter weather events, which include snow, sleet, freezing rain, and extreme cold temperatures.

This Integrated Preparedness Plan (IPP) for the State of South Carolina outlines a coordinated strategy to sustain and improve its capacity to save lives and protect property in the event of a disaster. The plan details a comprehensive three-year cycle (2026-2028) of training and exercises designed to validate, refine, and develop capabilities based on identified gaps and needs. It supports Homeland Security and Emergency Management strategies by focusing on five key priorities: Prevention of and/or Protection from Terrorist Attacks and Associated Crimes, Mitigation of Hazards, Effective Emergency Response, Rapidly Recover from Catastrophic Events, and Improve Statewide Planning, Operational Coordination, and Public Information and Warning.

The Behavioral Health Plan outlines procedures for coordinating behavioral health services during and following disasters and other emergencies. It focuses on mitigating adverse psychological effects resulting from stress and trauma in responders, survivors, and the community by providing emotional support, resource allocation, and linkage. The plan emphasizes the importance of recognizing the natural resiliency of individuals and communities while addressing the varying human responses to disastrous events, including negative stress, anxiety, and depression. It also addresses the needs of first responders, non-English speaking populations, and individuals with functional and access needs.

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) leads the state emergency management program by supporting local authorities to minimize the loss of life and property from all-hazard events. The plan outlines the phases of emergency management, including preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. It details the roles and responsibilities of various Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) and coordinating agencies, ensuring a coordinated response to emergencies and disasters. The plan also emphasizes the importance of public information, individual assistance, public assistance, and hazard mitigation to support affected communities and reduce future risks.