The South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) in collaboration with the South Carolina Emergency Management Department (SCEMD) urges residents in the state to start preparing for colder weather.

SCEMD publishes a yearly Winter Weather Guide to help residents prepare for severe weather such as ice, snow, sleet and hail and the effects that come with them like extended power outages and slick roads.

The department also urges citizens to download the S.C. Emergency Management app. The app allows users to create emergency plans, locate open emergency shelters, manage supplies and stay connected with family and friends.

The app also has a flashlight, locator whistle and damage report feature. It is free to download on Apple and Android app stores.

“Winter weather in South Carolina may be unpredictable, but your safety doesn’t have to be,” Kim Stenson, director of the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, said in the press release. “Preparation today can make all the difference when hazardous winter weather strikes.”

Colder weather can also present numerous health issues such as hypothermia and increased risk of falls from driving and walking on icy and slicker-than-normal roads.

“Winter weather conditions can bring changes to your environment that make normal tasks more dangerous,” Edward Simmer, interim DPH director, said in the press release. “This can be especially true for our vulnerable populations, like newborns, the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. We encourage all South Carolinians to take steps to prevent potential injury, including dressing for colder conditions, taking additional measures to avoid falls, and being extra cautious while driving.”

Both departments urge residents to have an emergency plan and enough emergency supplies for three days. The supplies should include non-perishable food, water, formula and diapers for infants and all necessary medications. Sleeping bags, warm clothes and blankets will also be needed during the colder months.