Where to find sandbags in the Myrtle Beach area ahead of Hurricane Debby (2024)

FAQs

Where to find sandbags in the Myrtle Beach area ahead of Hurricane Debby? ›

Bring your own sandbags. Sandbags can be purchased in packs of 25 at these stores located in North Myrtle Beach - Boulineau's, Vereen's, Windy Hill Hardware, Home Depot, and Lowes. The Fire Department, Police Department, and Public Works are working on final storm preparations.

Sand bags always need to be placed outside the home or building. Having a flood barrier indoors will still permit water inside the home, so always place bags in the way of a door or entryway for the best chance of flood control.

Ideal for flowing waters: Unlike sandbags, flood barriers and cofferdams can be used in more severe flood risks. They can stand up to fast-flowing waters and extend to a much greater height than sandbags. Reusable: As a one-time investment, these solutions can be used over and over without the need for replacements.

Place the sandbags OUTSIDE and against the doors where water enters your home. Garage: If water comes into your garage, sandbags should be directly against the access door into your home for support (Figure 1). Garages can withstand low flooding with less damage than the interior of your home.

The use of sandbags is a simple, but effective way to prevent or reduce flood water damage. Properly filled and placed sandbags can act as a barrier to divert moving water around, instead of through, buildings. Sandbag construction does not guarantee a water-tight seal, but is satisfactory for use in most situations.

1. Sandbags will not seal out water.

The use of sandbags is a simple, but effective way to prevent or reduce flood water damage. Properly filled and placed sandbags can act as a barrier to divert moving water around, instead of through, buildings. Sandbag construction does not guarantee a water-tight seal, but is satisfactory for use in most situations.

Water inflated cofferdams are probably the best alternative to sandbags when it comes to flood protection. They are sturdy, quick to deploy and they offer protection against very high volumes of water. They are also convenient, as the very resource needed to inflate them – water – is usually readily available.

Alternatives to Sandbags

For the bags, you can use pillow cases, double up on plastic bags, or even hessian fabric. Hessian is a fabric sold by the foot at most hardware stores. For filling alternatives, consider materials such as cat litter, potting mix, dirt, gravel, blankets, or rags.

Filling sandbags at beaches violates county, state, and federal laws and leads to beach erosion, which can endanger structures and homes along the beach. Taking sand can also disrupt sea turtle nests which are protected through the Endangered Species Act.

Is dirt or sand better for sandbags? ›

Only use sand in the bags: Dirt and potting soil are not a suitable replacement for filling the bags. When wet, the sand hardens but it's still pliable enough to mold into the shape needed to build a water-blocking structure. Try to use coarse sand: If possible, avoid using fine sand.

Place sandbags to form a pyramid by alternating placing bags crosswise and lengthwise. Stamp each bag in place, overlap sacks, maintain staggered joint placement and tuck in any loose ends.

If you can, put a large sheet of heavy-duty plastic between the sandbags and the wall of your house. Place the bags lengthways, tucking the open end under the filled half of the bag and position it pointing into the direction of water flow. Place bags in layers.

Place the empty bags in trash cans if you choose not to reuse them. Do not place the empty sandbags in the recycle bin. If you cannot reuse the sand or sandbags at home, take them directly to the landfill.

Sandbags are one of the best things you can use to protect your structure during a hurricane. These bags help keep backwater and debris away from your structure to prevent flooding. Outside your house, inside your garage, and along the exterior doors are important places to place sandbags.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, with most storms occurring between mid-August and late October. Spread sand on lawns or landscape beds. Place the empty bags in your garbage bin (do not place the bags in your recycling bin).

Place sandbags to form a pyramid by alternating placing bags crosswise and lengthwise. Stamp each bag in place, overlap sacks, maintain staggered joint placement and tuck in any loose ends.

Sealing doors and windows can help prevent water from entering your home during a storm. Use weather-stripping or caulking to seal any gaps around your doors and windows. Gutters and downspouts can become clogged with leaves and debris, causing water to overflow and enter your home.

✓ Take refuge in a small interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest level during the storm. Put as many walls between you and the outside as you can. ✓ Stay away from windows, skylights and glass doors.