PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Sept. 11, 2018 – The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners has declared a state of emergency for Calvert County due the potential severe rain, tidal surges and flooding as a result of Hurricane Florence. Declaring a state of emergency is a proactive measure to ensure resources are mobilized in the case of a catastrophic event. The Calvert County Department of Public Safety is currently tracking the path of the hurricane, but the direction and impact of the storm is still uncertain.
As Calvert County prepares for Hurricane Florence, the Department of Public Safety encourages residents to review hurricane preparedness procedures in the event the storm poses a risk for the region.
Prepare for High Winds
• If necessary, protect all windows with shutters or 5/8-inch plywood panels.
• Reinforce garage doors.
• Designate an interior room with no windows or external doors as a “safe room.”
• Assess your landscaping and trees to ensure they do not become a wind hazard.
Prepare for Flooding
• When you hear hurricane, think inland flooding.
• Determine the elevation of your property to learn your vulnerability to flooding.
• In flood-prone areas, keep on hand materials such as sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, plastic garbage bags, lumber, shovels, work boots and gloves.
• Be aware of areas known to flood so your evacuation routes are not cut off.
As the Storm Approaches
• Most mobile/manufactured homes are not built to withstand hurricane-force winds. Residents of these homes should relocate to a safer structure when an evacuation order is issued.
• Secure lawn furniture and other outside objects that could become projectiles in high winds.
• Listen carefully for safety instructions from local officials. Monitor NOAA weather radio.
During the Storm
• Stay inside and away from windows, skylights and doors.
• Listen to a battery-powered radio for storm updates.
• Have flashlights/batteries handy and avoid open flames and candles.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce damage when power is restored.
After the Storm
• Stay away from downed or dangling power lines.
• Beware of weakened tree limbs.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate your house.
• Use your phone only in emergencies.
• Do not drive into water of unknown depth.
• Restrict children from playing in flooded areas.
• Do not use fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters.
• Wells should be pumped out and the water tested before drinking.
To stay informed about local conditions and emergency information, residents are encouraged to sign up for Calvert County ALERT. To sign up, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov and click on the Emergency Alerts button. Residents are also encouraged to “like” the county’s Facebook page or download the free “Prepare Me Calvert” emergency preparedness mobile application available for iOS (Apple) and Android devices. Those without internet can contact the Calvert County Division of Emergency Management at 410-535-1600, ext. 2638, to sign up or for additional emergency preparedness information.
Further hurricane preparedness information is available through the Maryland Emergency Management Agency online at www.mema.state.md.us. For the most up-to-date forecasts on the track of the storm, visit the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov. Questions or requests for information can also be sent by email to oem@co.cal.md.us. For information on Calvert County Government, visit www.calvertcountymd.gov or like us on Facebook.