Notice

A Message from  Columbia Housing CEO Jessica Anderson-Preston:

The Midlands is under threat of severe winter weather beginning Saturday, January 24 through Sunday, January 25, 2026. Please stay tuned to your local news source for the latest weather updates and plan accordingly. Columbia Housing is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates to our residents as needed. We want everyone to stay warm and safe during this possible event and are offering the tips below in the event of significant impacts. Please contact your Property Management Team with specific concerns. 

Report power outages or downed lines to Dominion Energy by calling 1-888-333-4465 or clicking here.

Report emergency maintenance issues by calling 803-254-3886, option 5.

Stay tuned to local media for the most up to date information on weather conditions.

Be Prepared

Your primary concerns at home or work during a winter storm are loss of heat, power and telephone service; and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue for more than a day. Make sure you have water, food that can be prepared without electricity and battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio to receive emergency information. 

Stay Warm

It might seem obvious, but putting on a few extra layers is a great way to stay warm, especially if you have to be outside. Keeping your core warm is especially important when temperatures dip below freezing, so try wearing an extra shirt or two under your coat.

Check on Elderly Neighbors & Family Members

Checking in on older loved ones, neighbors, and friends is especially important during very cold weather. Older adults are particularly susceptible to hypothermia, which occurs when a person's body temperature drops below normal for a period of time. Make sure they have heat, warm blankets and enough supplies to limit their time outside.

If Your Heat Goes Out

Close off unneeded rooms to avoid wasting heat. Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors. Close blinds or curtains to keep in some heat. Eat and drink. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Make sure to eat and drink fluids to prevent dehydration. Cold air is very dry, wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers to avoid overheating, perspiration and subsequent chill.

 Protect Pipes from Freezing

Keeping the heat on isn't the only thing you can do to protect pipes from freezing.  Let your hot and cold faucets drip overnight and open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and on exterior walls.

Watch Out for Furry Friends

Always remember to bring pets inside when temperatures begin to drop. Limit outside walks and exposure to 10 minutes or less during extreme cold weather.