PGFD Tips for Before the Storm

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930

mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

BEFORE THE STORM:

An approaching storm system could impact our normal way of life over the next several days.  "Joaquin" became a hurricane on Wednesday, September 30.  Forecasters have the Delaware, Maryland and Virginia coasts as potential landfall over the weekend or early next week.  If this storm has a direct impact on our area or not it will still bring heavy rains and high winds.

Much of our area has already been saturated with rains on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.  The potential for tree falls and power outages will be high.  Today is a good time to prepare yourself and keep some good common sense tips at the forefront of your preparations.

Stay informed by monitoring local news broadcasts on TV and radio as well as reliable news  Internet sites about approaching weather.  Sign up to ALERT - Prince George's and receive important news and storm updates on your mobile device.  Follow @PGFDPIO on Twitter,  www.PGFDNEWS.com  and PGFD Facebook for up to the minute Fire/EMS news and safety advice.  Have all mobile devices fully charged before and during the storm.

Have your emergency kit prepared, stocked and ready.  For additional information on what should be in your kit go to: www.ready.gov

Your emergency kit should include a battery operated radio and flashlights.  We do not recommend the use of candles during power outages.

Ensure your Smoke alarm and CO detector are tested and have fresh batteries.

Consider purchasing bags of ice that can be stored in your freezer.

Ensure your cell phones, lap tops and tablets are completely charged.

Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas.

Consider having a quantity of cash on hand in the event that ATM's and banks are out of power.

Remove any objects in your yard that could become airborne during periods of high winds.  Secure larger items by tying them down.

Clean and clear your storm and outdoor basement drains of any debris that could clog and back up rain water.

Management companies should safely inspect their rooftops to ensure all gutters and roof top drains are clear and clean up any debris that will clog drains when it rains.  Pooling water on roof tops could cause water damage inside and cause a possible collapse.

Stay ready to take quick actions in the event of severe weather including remaining indoors and going to the lowest possible level or floor and if possible in a room with no windows. Have your emergency kit ready. 

Check with your work location on what is the plan and notification for cancellations.

Set up a communications plan with family members and friends.  Remember that "texting" has been more reliable then cell phone calls and emails during times of high usage and outages.

If you have a generator - follow manufacturer's instructions on how to use it safely, position it far enough away from your residence to avoid CO finding it's way inside, refuel after cool-down, use approved outdoor heavy-duty extension cords that are free of any rips and tears.

Stay Informed, Stay Ready, Stay Safe.  Don't panic, stay calm and prepare.