Calvert Urges Readiness as Hurricane Season Approaches

David M. Higgins II, Publisher/Editor

May 31

Prince Frederick, Md. – May 30, 2024 – As the Atlantic hurricane season commences on June 1, the Calvert County Department of Public Safety, Emergency Management Division, emphasizes the importance of citizen awareness and preparedness.

The Atlantic hurricane season, spanning from June to November, peaks between mid-August and late October. Calvert County is susceptible to severe weather including strong winds, heavy rain, and inland flooding. Residents are urged to stay "weather ready" by staying informed, having an emergency plan, and following safety protocols during and after storms.

According to the National Weather Service, hurricanes can cause significant damage not only along coastlines but also several hundred miles inland. The risks include extreme winds, dangerously high tides, flooding from heavy rains, and tornadoes. To mitigate these risks, residents should:

Stay Informed: Monitor local radio and TV stations for weather updates, alerts, and warnings.
Follow Instructions: Adhere to guidance from emergency officials.
Evacuation Plan: Know your evacuation routes and have a shelter plan.
Indoor Safety: Stay indoors during hurricanes, away from windows and glass doors.
Mobile Home Safety: Plan for alternative shelter if you live in a mobile home.
Communication Plan: Develop a family communication plan and designate a meeting place.
Special Needs Consideration: Account for medical needs, dietary requirements, disabilities, language barriers, pets, and children.
Smart911 Registration: Sign up for Smart911 to provide crucial information to 911 call takers during emergencies.
Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with water, non-perishable food, a battery-powered radio, flashlight, first aid kit, whistle, local maps, cell phone chargers, prescription medications, cash, important documents, blankets, and clothing. Ensure kits are available at home, work, and in vehicles.
Water Supply: Fill a bathtub or large container with water for cleaning and sanitation purposes, especially if your water supply relies on electricity.

Residents can stay informed and prepared by visiting www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/BeAwarePrepare and signing up for Calvert County Alert. This service provides timely updates on emergency and non-emergency situations via various communication methods including cell phone, landline, email, text messaging, fax, and pager.

Additionally, the Department of Public Safety offers the free "Calvert Prepare" app, which delivers real-time information during regional emergencies and helps residents stay prepared. For those without internet access, the Calvert County Division of Emergency Management can be reached at 410-535-1600, ext. 2638, for further information. More emergency planning resources are available at www.ready.gov.