Help us institute a quick and orderly return to the island. Since no one can predict the devastating forces of a hurricane, earthquake,or other natural disaster, Dewees Island Public Safety Department and the General Manager will be allowed immediate access to the island to conduct a safety inspection of the island's infrastructure and to evaluate safety conditions. Visual inspections of the building exteriors will be executed and findings will be recorded.

 

All residents will be granted full access to the island immediately upon determination that no abnormally dangerous conditions exist and Ferry Transportation can be arranged.

 

If return to the island is delayed for any reason, staff will be dispatched around the island to photograph damaged homes to email owners if possible.

 

The Dewees Island Public Safety, Dewees Utility Corporation, SCE&G, road clearing personnel, and disaster survey personnel have first priority on the island. Please cooperate with these people. Please stay out of their way.

 

The Dewees Utility Corporation monitors supplied water on a continuous basis and is prepared to re-chlorinate as necessary. In cases where pipes are broken, water may be shut off or may not be drinkable. DO NOT drink Utility water until it is determined it is safe to do so. If, after returning home, you have any questions about the condition of the water supply, call the General Manager at 843-568-3991 for information. Water supplies may be non–existent or limited and pressure low.

 

The Dewees Utility Corporation Sewerage System may be damaged by the storm. Individual pumps and pump controllers at your home may need to be replaced. Habitation on Dewees Island is not possible until your sewerage pumps and controllers are replaced and the Corporation's plant is functional.

 

Electric power may be badly affected by a storm, so be prepared to function for several weeks or months with no power. STAY AWAY from power lines as power could be turned on to them at any time without warning.

 

Do not connect personal generators into a circuit; this may prove to be very dangerous. As electrical power comes on, please be cautious because power may fluctuate widely, and these surges can damage air conditioners and other appliances-- reinforcing the necessity to turn off the main breaker before leaving the residence.

 

Power will be restored to POA and Utility critical infrastructure first and second to residences. If your meter has been damaged, it will be necessary for the property owner to have an electrician repair it before you can be reconnected for power.

 

When you return, watch for animals, snakes, and insects, like bees or wasps, which may have taken refuge in your storage area or home. Even domesticated pets may be disoriented and harm you.

 

Use caution in your clean-up efforts. Your debris should be placed on the front of your property so it will not obstruct the roadways, street or fire hydrants.

 

You will be informed of any disposal policies and procedures as they develop.

Debris is NOT to be burned on private property.

 

Use water sparingly as sewage and water systems may not be functioning.

 

Heed instructions from the Island Manager. There will be important information you need. A curfew may even be initiated, as deemed necessary, to maintain safety and security of property and residents.