Latest updates: Hurricane Helene
Our public health departments' hours of operation may be affected by power and staffing outages. This means that some closures may not appear on the state government office delays and closings map. The health and safety of our employees and our clients remains our highest priority. We are working to get services restored as safely and quickly as possible.
Learn more about DPH's role with hurricanes, floods, and weather emergencies.
Tuesday, Jul 2, 2024
COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is encouraging residents to practice critical safety precautions when handling fireworks so they can protect themselves and their children during Fourth of July festivities. While fireworks are a source of fun and celebration, they can also cause serious or permanent injury and death if not used properly.
“Preventable injuries and deaths occur each year due to the mishandling of fireworks, and those injuries are most common on and around holidays associated with fireworks celebrations, especially the Fourth of July,” said Karilyn Tremblay, DPH Injury Prevention and Aging Programs Director. “We urge South Carolinians to exercise caution and stay safe while enjoying the Fourth.”
Injuries related to fireworks have significantly increased since 2007, according to a 2023 report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The report shows eight deaths and 9,700 fireworks-related injuries occurred in 2023. Of those injuries, 66 percent occurred in the one-month span surrounding July 4. Burns were the most frequently estimated type of injury, making up 42 percent of all fireworks injuries treated in emergency departments.
The best way to prevent fireworks injuries is to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals. However, if you do light up fireworks at home, the CPSC offers tips on how to stay safe when using fireworks:
Visit CPSC and the National Council on Fireworks Safety’s pages for more information on staying safe during Fourth of July weekend.
Have a very happy and safe Independence Day!
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For media requests, please email media@dph.sc.gov or call 803-898-7769.
Wednesday, Oct 2, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Oct. 2, 2024
Monday, Sep 30, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 30, 2024
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that a skunk found near Cedar Lane Road and Tyezack Drive in Westminster, S.C., has tested positive for rabies. No people are known to have been exposed at this time. One dog was exposed and will be quarantined as required by the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.
Friday, Sep 27, 2024
Updated Sept. 29, 2024: The Care Line will be open for calls 24 hours a day until further notice.
Hours extended to help answer individuals’ questions about DPH services related to Hurricane Helene
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 27, 2024
Friday, Sep 27, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 27, 2024
COLUMBIA, S.C. — In observance of World Rabies Day on Sept. 28, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) reminds South Carolinians of the steps they can take to protect people and pets against one of the world’s most fatal diseases.