CHARLESTON, S.C. (June 1, 2012) — Coastal residents need to be prepared for potential severe storms striking the Carolina coast this year.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association predicts nine to 15 tropical storms will develop along the Atlantic coast this hurricane season, with as many as four to eight becoming hurricanes.  As South Carolina enters the 2012 hurricane season, BI-LO wants customers to know the company stands ready to deliver needed supplies and support in the event severe weather hits. 

“Throughout hurricane season we wants shoppers to know that BI-LO is an important resource before, during and after a severe storm hits,” said Allen Reavis, vice president of grocery merchandising.  “We are fully prepared to support our communities and deliver any supplies needed to stay safe during inclement weather.”

BI-LO stores across the coast have increased supplies of water, batteries, utility lighters, canned food, water filters, emergency weather radios, propane tanks and flash lights and are offering these products at special BONUSCARD® prices.  The company has also devised a hurricane inventory plan to ensure that ample supplies of fresh bread, water, batteries and ice are available to customers in the event that a store is impacted by a storm.

In addition to the supplies and groceries available at great savings, BI-LO offers the following helpful web link tips for residents to review as they prepare should a storm be forecasted to move into the area:

• Have a family plan ready: develop an escape route, post emergency numbers and stock up on nonperishable emergency supplies.
• Create a basic supply kit: include nonperishable food, water, first aid supplies and communication devices, such as a battery powered radio or phone.
• Establish an evacuation plan: secure evacuation destinations both in and out of town and be sure to factor traffic delays into your travel schedule.
• Secure your home: strengthen the exterior of your home so wind and debris do not tear large holes in it by reinforcing the roof, doors and garage doors.

About BI-LO
Headquartered in Mauldin, S.C., BI-LO operates 206 supermarkets in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee, employing approximately 15,100 people. Founded in 1961, the company provides shoppers substantial savings without sacrificing quality or freshness through its BI-LO BONUSCARD® and other exclusive programs. A committed corporate citizen, BI-LO has donated more than $52 million through its BI-LO Charities efforts to organizations across the company’s footprint since 1983. For more information, visit www.bi-lo.com. 

Media Contact:
Aliza Darnell
Erwin Penland
864-752-4781
aliza.darnell@erwinpenland.com