County Fire and Emergency Say Prepare For Hurricane Sandy

Anne Arundel Fire Department spokesman Chief Michel Cox issued the following release to the media on Saturday morning:

Severe Storms are a common occurrence in Anne Arundel County.  In fact, Anne Arundel County residents have been the recipient of numerous severe weather events storms over the past few years and a tropical storm is again predicted to hit the area early next week.  The Anne Arundel County Fire Department and Emergency Management Bureau are closely monitoring the predicted storm track and have begun taking preparations in the event high winds and heavy rain inundates our area.

The latest computer models show the possibility of Hurricane Sandy making a hit somewhere in the mid-Atlantic on Monday evening and into Tuesday.

County Executive John R. Leopold and County Fire Department/ Emergency Management Officials also suggest that County residents begin the following activities to help prepare for this potential severe weather event:

• Remove any dead or diseased branches from trees or shrubs in your flower beds/landscape that could break off and become missiles in high winds.
  
• Clear debris from gutters and down spouts 
• Make sure your sump pump is working, route water flow away from your home and your neighbor’s home.   
• Never attempt to climb ladders or get on the roof of your home when wet conditions exist or during an active storm. 
• Remove or secure items outside such as: lawn furniture or lawn fixtures as they may that might become missiles in windy conditions.
  
• Watch for downed power lines and stay away from any standing water which may be energized from downed power lines. 
• Gather supplies, including a first aid kit, protective clothing and rainwear, canned foods, prescription medication, pet food/meds, and at least three gallons of water (preferably more).
• Fill your bathtub with water and turn the refrigerator to the coldest setting.
  
• Have a battery operated radio available to listen to news and weather updates in the event power is lost. 
• Ensure that all cell phones are charged and remain in contact with family members in the area. 
• Use a flashlight if the power is out. Do not use candles or other open flames indoors.
• If a generator is a part of your plan to keep your home out of the dark, remember the following
  • Have a licensed electrician install any interface between the generator and your home’s current electrical system.  Overloading and/or electrical malfunction may result from improper installation.
  • If electrical cords become HOT during use, a fire is likely to result… don’t overload electrical cord.  Don’t run electrical cord(s) under carpeting — be careful securing electrical cords, an errantly placed staple may cause a fire.
    
  • Never run a generator inside the home/garage or enclosed space – carbon monoxide levels will jeopardize your family’s safety.  Also keep windows closed in close proximity to where the generator is located outside.  This ensures that carbon monoxide doesn’t enter from the window. 
• Prepare to leave right away if local officials advise you to do so, don’t attempt to evacuate during the height of the storm.
• Know the location of nearest shelters  (Annapolis High School for South County)
  
• Avoid closed/flooded roadways.  Do not drive around barricades to access flooded roadways. Most cars can be swept away in 18-24 inches of moving water.