EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 2009-04


WHEREAS, on April 22, 2009, a brush fire broke out along Highway 90 in Horry County and spread along both sides of Highway 22 and has burned over 15,000 acres, damaged or destroyed 140 homes, and caused the evacuation of over 2,500 residents in Horry County; and

WHEREAS, I have been advised that the wildfire in Horry County represents a threat to the safety, security, welfare and property of citizens and transients living in South Carolina, and that Horry County has exhausted its resources.

NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me as Governor, pursuant to the Constitution and Statutes of the State of South Carolina, I hereby declare that a State of Emergency exists in Horry County. I direct that the South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan be placed into effect. I further direct that all prudent preparations be taken at the individual, local, and state levels to protect against the possible effects of the wildfire, and that the South Carolina National Guard be placed on a standby status and, at the discretion of the Adjutant General, and in coordination with South Carolina Emergency Management Division, specified units of the National Guard be placed on active duty to assist civil authorities and to take all reasonable precautions as is necessary for the preservation of life and property.

FURTHER, Proclamations and Orders deemed necessary to ensure the fullest possible protection of life and property during this State of Emergency may be issued verbally by me, and thereafter published for dissemination within the succeeding twenty-four hour period.

This Order shall take effect immediately.

GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND THE GREAT SEAL OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, THIS 23rd DAY OF APRIL, 2009.

MARK SANFORD
Governor

This page last updated on Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 11:43 A.M.