Flood Protection Information
The following links can provide you with abundant information on the subjects of flood mitigation, protection, and insurance.
- FEMA -Federal Emergency Management Agency
- National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Information
- 2011 Flood Newsletter -Download the 2011 flood informative newsletter
- How to Protect Your Home & Property -FEMA
- Georgetown Flood Map -FEMA's Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) may be viewed in the Building & Planning Department upon request.
- SC Flood Mitigation Programs
- Hurricane Evacuation and shelter location information
- Floodsmart.gov -The official site of the Nation Floop Insurance Program (NFIP)
- SC State Climatology Office -Information on climate from floods to drought.
- Elevation Certificate Information -click to view recent EC's in the City of Georgetown. Please inquire with the City of Georgetown's Building and Planning Department for further information that is readily available upon request.
- NOAA -Real time river flood levels for Georgetown area. NOAA Weather Radio
- South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD)
- Drainage System maintenance -Some information on our draingage system.
- SCDHEC Ocean & Coastal Resource Management (OCRM)
- The Weather Channel -Get real time local weather updates and warnings.
- Flood Waring System -Listen to the local City of Georgetown Emergency Operations radio station.
- Natural and Beneficial Functions of the Local Floodplain
- Georgetown County Library -Search for Flood Protection in the online catalog to get all types of flood information and books from your local library.
- Flood Ordinance for the City of Georgetown
- Hurricane Surge Map for the City of Georgetown
If you have any questions or concerns about FIRM's, permits for flood retrofitting, or floodplain management we can help you. Please contact our staff at 843-545-4010.
Flood Tips
Do Not Walk Through Flowing Water
Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths. Most occur during flash floods. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Use a pole or stick to make sure that the ground is still there before you go through an area of flowing water.
Do Not Drive Through a Flooded Area
Don't drive around road barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out.
Stay Away From Power Lines and Electrical Wires
Electrocution is also a major killer in floods. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to your utility company or local emergency manager.
Turn Off Your Electricity When You Return Home
Some appliances, such as television sets, can shock you even after they have been unplugged. Don't use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned, and dried.
Watch for Animals, Especially Snakes
Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn items over and scare away small animals.
Look Before You Step
After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris including broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very slippery.
Be Alert for Gas Leaks
Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don't smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you are sure that the gas has been turned off and the area has been aired out.
Carbon Monoxide Exhaust Kills
Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machines outdoors. The same goes for camping stoves. Fumes from charcoal are especially deadly -- cook with charcoal only outdoors.
Clean Everything That Gets Wet
Floodwaters have picked up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories, and storage buildings. Spoiled food and flooded cosmetics and medicines are health hazards. When in doubt, throw them out.
Take Good Care of Yourself
Recovering from a flood is a big job. It is tough on both the body and the spirit. And the effects a disaster has on you and your family may last a long time. Learn how to recognize and care for anxiety, stress, and fatigue.
Note On Flood Insurance
Most homeowner's insurance policies do NOT offer protection against flood losses. For information about flood insurance, call your local insurance agent, or the City of Georgetown Building, Planning, and Zoning Department at (843) 545-4010.