Preparedness Month

MEMA REMINDS MARYLANDERS THAT SEPTEMBER IS TIME TO PREPARE FOR SEVERE WEATHER AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

REISTERSTOWN, MD – The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) reminds Marylanders that September is a good time to review preparedness information for severe weather and other emergencies throughout the year. September is National Preparedness Month. Throughout September, government agencies, business, community groups, schools, and families will be participating in events to help promote disaster preparedness and community resilience.

“This is the time for everyone who lives or works in Maryland to learn about potential hazards and what they can do to be prepared,” said Ken Mallette, Executive Director of the Maryland Emergency Management Agency. “Most of the basic preparations are appropriate for all of the common threats facing our state, including floods, high winds, severe thunderstorms winter storms, even extended power outages.”

Several on-line sources provide good emergency preparedness information:

· MEMA: mema.maryland.gov/Pages/emergencies.aspx

· Federal Emergency Management Agency: www.ready.gov

· National Weather Service: www.weather.gov/safety

· American Red Cross: www.redcross.org/prepare

· Centers for Disease Control: www.emergency.cdc.gov

Although the current hurricane season has been quiet, the next few weeks are traditionally the most likely time for a hurricane to hit the Middle Atlantic area. In several months the potential for strong winter storms will return. Making preparations when threats are not imminent can make communities more resilient.