MYRTLE BEACH, SC, December 17, 2023—The American Red Cross of South Carolina has opened a shelter due to Sunday’s severe storms and a tornado in the Socastee area in Horry County. The shelter is available to individuals and families who need assistance. The Red Cross is working closely with emergency management and government officials in the impacted areas.

The shelter is now open and is located at Carolina Forest Recreation Center, 2254 Carolina Forest Blvd, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Shelter: Carolina Forest Recreation Center
2254 Carolina Forest Blvd
Myrtle Beach (Horry County), SC 29579

As storms continue, individuals evacuating to a Red Cross shelter are encouraged to bring essential items for each member of their family, including:

·         Prescription and emergency medications

·         Foods that meet special dietary requirements

·         Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items

·         Chargers for any electronic devices

·         Books, games and other forms of entertainment

The Red Cross wants those in the impacted communities to be mindful when returning home or out and about in the area and provides the following safety tips:

• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms.
• Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked.
• Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or disabled.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control.

POWER OUTAGE SAFETY

·         Avoid damaged or fallen power lines, poles, and downed wires. They can electrocute you.

·         Avoid electrical shock in flood areas. Do not go into flooded areas or use any electrical equipment that may have been underwater.

·         Be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not use gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, tent, or camper — or even outside near an open window. Carbon monoxide can’t be seen or smelled, but it can kill you fast. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak, get to fresh air right away — do not delay!

Prevent Power Overloads and Fire Hazards

•       Unplug appliances and electronics to avoid damage from power surges.

•       Use flashlights, not candles.

•       Turn off the utilities only if you suspect damage or if local officials instruct you to do so. Your gas line can only be turned on by a professional.

•       Contact a professional if you have problems once the utilities are back on. Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

•       Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.

•       Do not use outdoor stoves indoors for heating or cooking.

•       If using a generator, keep it outside in a well-ventilated area away from windows.

Decide if you Need to Stay or Go

•       Evacuate if your home is too hot or too cold, or if you have medical devices that need power.

•       Communities often provide warming or cooling centers and power charging stations

All Red Cross assistance is provided free of charge and made possible by the generosity of the public. To donate to Red Cross Disaster Relief and help people affected by disasters big and small, visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. To become a Red Cross volunteer visit www.redcross.org/volunteer.

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