Due to the number of power outages and the extreme low temperatures throughout Charles County, the Department of Emergency Services is opening an overnight emergency shelter tonight, March 14 at 7 p.m. for residents and their pets in need of a safe and warm location. The shelter will be located at the Department of Community Services building (8190 Port Tobacco Road, Port Tobacco). Please enter at the gymnasium entrance. No meals or showers will be provided.
Before leaving home, residents are advised to take the following actions:
• Turn off lights and appliances (except refrigerators and freezers).
• Close and lock windows and doors.
• Offer rides to neighbors who may not have transportation.
Residents who come to the shelter should bring only essential items, including:
• Medical supplies (prescriptions, other medications, first aid kit)
• Money (cash, checkbook, credit cards, important personal and financial documents)
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, shaving supplies, eye care supplies, washcloth, towels)
• Clothing
• Baby care items (formula, diapers, favorite toys)
• Blankets, sleeping bags and pillows (cots will be provided)
• Non-perishable food
• Road maps
• Bottled water
This is a pet-friendly shelter. If you bring your dog(s) or cat(s) with you to the shelter, bring them in a pet carrier. Owners must provide food, water bowls, medications and proof of immunizations. Accommodations will be made to house animals. However, pets will not be allowed inside the shelter. Due to health regulations, only trained service animals are permitted inside the shelter.
This emergency shelter will operate through Wednesday, March 15 at 8 a.m. In the event residents do not seek shelter the facility will close at midnight.