The Calvert County Department of Public Safety announced that it is closely monitoring an approaching weather system marked by high wind that is forecasted to affect the Southern Maryland area late Friday and into Saturday evening. The National Weather Service has issued a Gale Warning for tomorrow from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.  Winds are expected to reach between 40-60 mph.  Temperatures may decrease to the mid-to-high 20’s tomorrow night. 


The weather system could very likely cause trees and tree limbs already weakened by last month’s heavy, wet snow and wind, to fall onto power lines and other electric delivery equipment, causing power outages. Residents should be prepared and take steps to ensure the safety of their families and property during electric service interruptions. Public Safety recommends that residents keep the following items readily available: 
 

·         Flashlights – not candles 

·         Fresh batteries 

·         Battery operated clock radio 

·         Corded telephone 

·         Fully charged cell phone 

·         Non-perishable foods 

·         Blankets 

Customers with special needs, such as those who may be elderly, handicapped or dependent on electricity for medical equipment, should have alternate arrangements in place should they experience an extended power outage. Customers using a generator or space heater should follow manufacturer instructions and be sure to locate generators in well-ventilated areas.

Customers also should consider filling the fuel tanks of their vehicles in the event a power outage affects service to neighborhood gas stations. For customers who rely on well water, filling a bathtub with water in advance of severe weather is strongly encouraged.