MDEM Newsroom - MDEM Newsroom
Maryland Department of Environment Releases 25 Agency Climate Plans to Meet Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets
December 20th, 2024BALTIMORE (December 20, 2024) – The Maryland Department of Environment today released climate plans submitted by 25 agencies to activate a “whole of government” strategy focused on cutting harmful emissions and building the green economy in line with the state’s Climate Pollution Reduction Plan.
The agency plans include over 100 priority actions to meet the state’s climate goals, including workforce development for installing clean appliances like heat pumps, electrifying vehicle fleets, making state buildings more energy efficient and diversifying the state’s energy portfolio. In June, Governor Moore issued an executive order creating the Climate Subcabinet and directing all agencies to complete Climate Implementation Plans by the end of 2024. State agencies will begin implementing the plans in 2025.
“We don’t have to choose between a green economy and a growing economy — we can, and we must, build both at the same time,” said Governor Moore. “By mounting an all-of-government approach to climate action, we will cut emissions, lower costs, and create more than 27,000 Maryland jobs. I thank my colleagues for their detailed proposals.”
The department also published the first progress report of the subcabinet, led by Maryland Secretary of the Environment Serena McIlwain and Chief Sustainability Officer Meghan Conklin. The report outlines a holistic approach to tackling climate change that prioritizes collaboration and coordination between all principal state agencies, as well as ongoing implementation of $13.5 billion in federal funding that the Moore-Miller Administration has secured since 2023. The report proposes a suite of metrics that will be regularly tracked to ensure agencies are advancing policies and programs that maximize positive environmental, economic and human health benefits for Marylanders.
“This is an unprecedented effort to focus on climate change as one government,” said Maryland Secretary of Environment Serena McIlwain. “I want to thank Governor Moore for bringing all agencies together to contribute to addressing our climate challenge and meeting our goals.”
The Moore-Miller Administration earlier this year announced a $90 million down payment on the state’s climate plan to help make Maryland a leader in clean energy and the greenest state in the country. The administration remains committed to the state’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent by 2031 and achieving 100 percent clean energy by 2035.
Governor Moore’s executive order also directed the Maryland Department of the Environment to take immediate action on climate change by proposing a zero-emission heating equipment standard regulation and a clean heat standard regulation, the Maryland Energy Administration to establish a framework for a clean energy standard, and the Maryland Department of Transportation to undertake several measures to promote clean transportation.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media contact:
Dave Abrams
dave.abrams1@maryland.gov
443-571-8779
“All of government” approach includes energy efficiency, workforce development
7th Annual Maryland Winter Safety Week: December 9–15, 2024
December 9th, 2024HANOVER, MD (December 6, 2024) — As Maryland gears up for another winter season, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is proud to announce the launch of the 7th Annual Maryland Winter Safety Week, running from December 9–15, 2024. This year’s initiative highlights the theme “Resilience Starts at Home,” encouraging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their families, and their communities from winter hazards.
Winter weather can present serious risks, from icy roads and power outages to extreme cold and fires caused by improper heating. Every year, winter hazards lead to preventable injuries, financial losses, and even fatalities. Winter Safety Week is about equipping Marylanders with the knowledge and tools to navigate the season safely and confidently. By working together and focusing on preparedness, we can build a Maryland that’s ready to weather the season safely.
Focused on Winter Hazards
Throughout Winter Safety Week, MDEM will collaborate with federal, state, and local partners, including the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to provide Marylanders with critical safety tips and resources. The campaign covers:
- Health Risks from Cold Weather : Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lower body temperature, weaken the immune system, and exacerbate chronic conditions like asthma or arthritis.
- Indoor Heating Safety: Carbon monoxide poisoning remains a significant threat as residents turn to alternative heating sources during power outages.
- Community Support: Residents are encouraged to check on vulnerable neighbors, including seniors and those with access and functional needs.
Be Winter-Ready with MdReady
A highlight of this year’s campaign is the MdReady system, a cutting-edge platform designed to keep Marylanders informed before, during, and after emergencies. MdReady text alert program offers alerts in 185 languages, ensuring accessibility for Maryland’s diverse population. To sign up, text MdReady to 211-631 or visit md.gov/alerts and customize your preferences to receive relevant notifications for your area.
Practical Winter Safety Tips
MDEM recommends the following steps to prepare for the winter season:
- Stay Informed: Have multiple ways to receive alerts, including MdReady and trusted weather sources like the NWS.
- Keep a car emergency kit in your vehicle, including winter supplies and essentials. Having a car emergency kit can be the difference between surviving being stranded in a severe winter storm or blizzard and getting frostbite, or worse, dying.
- Winterize Your Vehicle: Check tires, battery, and emergency supplies like a scraper, first-aid kit, and jumper cables.
- Keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration offers these tips for safe winter driving.
- Ensure Home Safety: Insulate pipes, test smoke detectors, and avoid using stoves or unventilated generators as heat sources.
Join the Conversation
MDEM will be sharing tips, trivia, and expert advice daily through its social media channels using the hashtags #MdReady and #WinterSafetyWeek2024. Residents are encouraged to participate, ask questions, and share how they’re preparing for winter.
For more tips and updates, visit MdReady.maryland.gov and follow MDEM on X (Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
As we move into the coldest months of the year, preparedness is not just a recommendation—it’s a shared responsibility. Let’s work together to make Maryland a safer, more resilient state this winter. Stay safe, stay informed, and stay MdReady!
Blizzard warning is in effect from 9 pm Wednesday 12/4 to 3 pm EST Thursday 12/5 in Garrett County
December 4th, 2024A Blizzard warning is in effect from 9 pm Wednesday 12/4 to 3 pm EST Thursday 12/5 in Garrett County. Snow squalls could result in travel disruptions. More info at bit.ly/md-alerts
Peach Bottom Emergency Siren Test Scheduled for Dec. 4
November 26th, 2024Contact: Brandy Donaldson
Communications Manager, Generation East
309.428.7539
Brandy.Donaldson@Constellation.com
Peach Bottom Emergency Siren Test Scheduled for Dec. 4
Sirens to sound for three minutes at 1 p.m.
DELTA, PA (Nov. 26, 2024) – Constellation will conduct its semi-annual, full-volume test of the emergency warning sirens surrounding Peach Bottom Clean Energy Center on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at approximately 1 p.m. This is one of two semi-annual tests performed each year.
The warning siren system consists of 97 sirens located in the 10-mile radius around Peach Bottom. The sirens are not a signal to evacuate, but a warning to tune to a local Emergency Alert Broadcast television or radio station. County emergency management authorities activate the sirens.
Peach Bottom Clean Energy Center is located on the bank of Conowingo Pond in York County, Pa. The plant produces enough carbon-free electricity to power the equivalent of more than 2 million homes.
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About Constellation
A Fortune 200 company headquartered in Baltimore, Constellation Energy Corporation (Nasdaq: CEG) is the nation’s largest producer of clean, emissions-free energy and a leading supplier of energy products and services to businesses, homes, community aggregations and public sector customers across the continental United States, including three fourths of Fortune 100 companies. With annual output that is nearly 90% carbon-free, our hydro, wind and solar facilities paired with the nation’s largest nuclear fleet have the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 16 million homes, providing about 10% of the nation’s clean energy. We are further accelerating the nation’s transition to a carbon-free future by helping our customers reach their sustainability goals, setting our own ambitious goal of achieving 100% carbon-free generation by 2040, and by investing in promising emerging technologies to eliminate carbon emissions across all sectors of the economy. Follow Constellation on LinkedIn and X.
Calvert Cliffs Emergency Siren Test Scheduled for Dec. 2
November 25th, 2024Contact: Brandy Donaldson
Communications Manager, Generation East
309.428.759
Brandy.Donaldson@Constellation.com
Calvert Cliffs Emergency Siren Test Scheduled for Dec. 2
Sirens to sound for three minutes at 12 p.m.
Lusby, MD (Nov. 25, 2024) – Constellation will conduct its semi-annual, full-volume test of the emergency warning sirens surrounding Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center on Monday, Dec. 2, at approximately noon. This is one of two semi-annual tests performed each year.
The warning siren system consists of sirens located in the 10-mile radius around the station. The sirens are not a signal to evacuate, but a warning to tune to a local Emergency Alert Broadcast television or radio station. County emergency management authorities activate the sirens.
Located in Lusby, Maryland, Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center includes two nuclear reactors that can produce enough carbon-free electricity to power the equivalent of more than 1.3 million homes.
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About Constellation
A Fortune 200 company headquartered in Baltimore, Constellation Energy Corporation (Nasdaq: CEG) is the nation’s largest producer of clean, emissions-free energy and a leading supplier of energy products and services to businesses, homes, community aggregations and public sector customers across the continental United States, including three fourths of Fortune 100 companies. With annual output that is nearly 90% carbon-free, our hydro, wind and solar facilities paired with the nation’s largest nuclear fleet have the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 16 million homes, providing about 10% of the nation’s clean energy. We are further accelerating the nation’s transition to a carbon-free future by helping our customers reach their sustainability goals, setting our own ambitious goal of achieving 100% carbon-free generation by 2040, and by investing in promising emerging technologies to eliminate carbon emissions across all sectors of the economy. Follow Constellation on LinkedIn and X.
A Winter Storm Warning has been issued along and west of the Alleghenies for heavy snow expected Thursday – Saturday morning
November 20th, 2024A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Garrett County from 10: a.m. Thursday 11/22 through 3 a.m. EST Saturday 11/24
More info at MdReady: bit.ly/md-alerts
As Holiday Travel Season Starts, MDEM Stresses Safety, Vigilance
November 18th, 2024“Know Before You Go” and Prepare for Longer Travel Times; Practice Safe Travel Habits Year-Round
HANOVER, MD (November 18, 2024) — Planning to be one of the millions of travelers nationally this holiday season? The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) wants to make sure all Marylanders remain vigilant whenever they travel, especially during the busy holiday season. MDEM’s Annual Maryland Travel Safety Week encourages Marylanders to practice safe travel habits while using all modes of transportation throughout the year.
MDEM also reminds travelers that, regardless of their mode of transportation, they should remember to “Know Before You Go” and “If You See Something, Say Something.”
“As we prepare for the busy holiday travel season, it’s essential to plan ahead and stay alert, no matter how or where you’re traveling,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “Traveling during the holidays should be about connecting with loved ones, not stressing over unexpected challenges. By following simple safety tips and staying MdReady, we can all help make this season safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Let’s ensure our journeys are as memorable as our destinations.”
MDEM designated November 18-24 as Maryland Travel Safety Week in preparation for the beginning of holiday travel to encourage safe travel all year on all modes of transportation. MDEM encourages travelers to learn about safe travel practices whether using roads, air, or rail, and as pedestrians and bike riders. You should also be aware of safety at various types of lodgings and gatherings.
MDEM encourages Marylanders to review some of these simple practices recommended by safety specialists covering a variety of transportation methods.
Know Before You Go — Head out for travel informed and prepared so you know the travel conditions while en route to your destination. Check on road and traffic conditions along your route; check for last-minute delays or cancellations before heading to the airport or train station; and always check local weather forecasts to make sure you pack appropriate clothing and prepare for potential travel delays.
If You See Something, Say Something — If you see a suspicious activity, device, or package, or overhear a suspicious conversation, report it immediately to a facility manager, carrier employee, or law enforcement. If you see accidents or hazards along the roadway or hiking/biking trails, make sure to alert local law enforcement, highway officials, or park employees so they can respond.
Safety tips when traveling by motor vehicle
Over the last few years, the State’s “Move Over Law” has been expanded to require motorists to make a lane change or slow down when approaching ANY stopped, standing, or parked vehicle displaying warning signals – including hazard warning lights, road flares, and other caution signals including, traffic cones, caution signs, and non-vehicular warning signs.
Other tips for drivers include:
- Allow extra time for travel due to increased traffic and congestion.
- Stay alert and give driving your full attention.
- Show courtesy to other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
- Drive defensively and carefully (not aggressively).
- Comply with traffic laws and heed all traffic signs, signals, and markings.
- Make sure all passengers are using seat belts and car seats properly.
- Make sure to have an emergency kit in your car with jumper cables, snacks, bottled water, and seasonally appropriate items like blankets, sand, or cat litter.
- Be especially careful in work zones.
- Wear U.S. Department of Transportation-approved helmets and eye protection when driving or riding on a motorcycle. Check the regulations where you will be traveling. Though these mandates vary by state, it is recommended to always wear a helmet and eye protection for your safety.
The Maryland Highway Safety Office of the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration has a variety of resources for safety education programs. You can check here for the latest travel conditions on highways around Maryland. You can also follow traffic conditions on X (formerly Twitter) @MDSHA.
Other information for safe travel on the roads is available from the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration or AAA Mid-Atlantic. For information about safety on Maryland toll roads, bridges, and tunnels, please visit the Maryland Transportation Authority. Please note that traffic volumes and patterns have changed in parts of the Baltimore area in the wake of the Francis Scott KeyBridge collapse in March, especially in the Baltimore Harbor and Fort McHenry tunnels.MDOT SHA also has motorcycle safety tips. For safety tips related to large commercial vehicles and intercity (non-transit) buses, please visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Safety tips when traveling by taxi or rideshare
- Ask ahead for the typical price and tipping range.
- Call for a taxi instead of hailing one.
- Make sure you verify the correct driver before getting into the car, if using a shared ride service like Uber or Lyft, by asking what their name is (don’t ask “Is your name so and so”).
- Look for a meter, a radio, a badge, a photo ID, and a door handle.
- Sit in the backseat – not in the passenger seat.
- Keep expensive items hidden and keep your belongings close.
Here are taxi safety tips from the Travel Insurance Review and a link to the taxi riders Consumer Bill of Rights from the Maryland Public Safety Commission. HG.org Legal Resources offers these tips for those using rideshare services, which often are not regulated in the same way as taxi services.
Safety tips when traveling by air
- Be on time, allow time to get through the security checkpoint, and build in time for possible schedule changes.
- Stay alert and watch your bags and belongings at all times.
- Let ONLY uniformed airline personnel handle your bags.
- Check with the information desks or airport/airline employees if you need help navigating the airport.
- Be aware of what can and cannot be carried with your carry-on bags and luggage.
Here is airport safety information for Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport and from the Transportation Security Administration. Current flight information at BWI-Marshall is here.
Safety tips when traveling by railroad
- Stay alert and watch your bags and belongings at all times.
- Make sure you familiarize yourself with the safety card found in most seatbacks.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your train is due to depart. Some stations require additional time.
- Report any suspicious behavior to police, station personnel, Amtrak Police, or by calling 1-800-331-0008.
More information about intercity rail travel safety can be found at Amtrak, and the Federal Railroad Administration has information for motorists and pedestrians at railroad crossings.
Safety tips when using public transportation (bus, subway, light rail, commuter rail)
- Check schedules ahead of time and leave sufficient time to make appropriate connections.
- Download apps that allow you to check arrival times and pay fares.
- Keep jewelry and other valuables out of sight at all times. If your pocket is picked, yell out immediately to warn others; don’t be afraid to shout. Tell the train or bus operator and request the police.
- Use caution when on rail platforms and at bus drop-offs, especially when surfaces are wet or icy.
Here are some safety tips from the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Administration, which operates Metro bus and rail service in the Washington, D.C. area, and anti-theft tips from the Maryland Transit Administration, which operates bus, subway, and light rail service in the Baltimore metro area.
Safety tips for lodging facilities (hotels, motels, resorts, short-term, and vacation rentals)
- Stay in facilities that have hard-wired smoke alarms and an automatic fire sprinkler system in each guest room.
- Read the fire evacuation plan carefully.
- Find the two closest exits from your room.
- Count the number of doors between your room and the exits; this will assist you if you need to evacuate in the dark.
- Find the fire alarms on your floor.
- Make sure if the rental is a vacation or private home, the facility has deadbolt locks on all doors and locking windows and has appropriate fire, smoke, and carbon monoxide alarms.
- Make sure if a vacation or private home rental has a swimming pool, someone is observing all swimmers and that proper safety equipment is available.
- Know the cancellation policy when making a reservation.
You can find additional safety tips for travelers staying at vacation and private home rentals from iPropertyManagement, and also more hotel/motel safety tips from SmarterTravel.
Safety tips for pedestrians
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks whenever possible.
- Stop at curbs and look left, right, and left again always before crossing a street and watch for cars turning in or leaving driveways.
- Wear light or bright-colored clothing or reflective items, especially before sunrise and after sunset.
- Pay attention and take off headphones while walking – no texting or playing games.
The MDOT State Highway Administration has more safety tips for pedestrians, as does the Federal Highway Administration.
Safety tips for those using bicycles
- Stop at all red lights and stop signs.
- Ride defensively – expect the unexpected.
- Ride with traffic, never against it.
- Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
- Stay visible when riding at night and during inclement weather.
- Wear a helmet correctly.
MDOT State Highway Administration has additional bicycle safety tips, as does the Federal Highway Administration.
Safety tips for traveling on the water
Whether piloting your own recreational boat or traveling on a passenger vessel (cruise ship or ferry), here are some important safety tips:
- Check weather forecasts for approaching fronts or storm watches. By the time a storm or gale warning is issued, it might be too late to get to a safe harbor.
- Refuse passengers to ride on the bow, gunwale, transom, seatbacks, or other spots where they might fall overboard.
- Wear your engine cut-off switch lanyard and your life jacket at all times. If the lanyard is removed from the switch, the engine will not shut off.
- Wear a United States Coast Guard-approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while on a recreational vessel under 21 feet in length if under age 13; this is a law.
- Wear an approved PFD at all times, for maximum safety, when on recreational boats. This applies to all persons, no matter how good of swimmers they are.
- Follow all safety directions, read prepared safety material, and participate in all life safety drills on passenger vessels.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has specific information for recreational boats traveling in Maryland waters, including kayaks and rowboats. The United States Coast Guard also has boater safety information. The Maryland Port Administration has information for people traveling out of the Baltimore cruise ship terminal. The Cruise Critic also has some tips for traveling safely on cruise ships.
To receive text alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards that may affect Maryland, text “MdReady” to 211-631, or text “MdListo” to receive alerts in Spanish; you can also visit Md.gov/alerts to sign up in your preferred language.
Marylanders are also encouraged to install the MdReady WebApp, which gives instant access to a wide array of emergency notifications and preparedness information to residents and visitors alike. To install the new WebApp, users can visit MdReady.maryland.gov and follow the prompt to easily add the MdReady shortcut to a mobile device home screen, or to sign up for text alerts in English or Spanish.
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Maryland Office of Resilience Unveils Comprehensive Resilience Toolkit
November 12th, 2024Empowering Communities With Funding Information, Planning Resources, and Technical Support to Tackle Future Challenges
HANOVER, MD (November 12, 2024) — The Maryland Office of Resilience (MOR), which is part of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), is proud to announce the launch of the Maryland Resilience Toolkit, available at ResilientMaryland.com. This new tool is designed to equip local governments, State agencies, community leaders, businesses, and nonprofits with access to the resources needed to strengthen hazard resilience across Maryland.
The Maryland Resilience Toolkit is a one-stop shop for resilience information and resources that can help communities across the State adapt to and overcome a wide range of evolving risks, from climate change and natural hazards to infrastructure challenges. By offering access to resilience grant opportunities and best practices, the Toolkit ensures that Maryland’s unique communities—from urban centers to rural towns—can build stronger infrastructure, protect their environments, and safeguard their people. “The key to a resilient Maryland lies within our State’s ability to be prepared to adapt, withstand, and swiftly recover from disruptions to daily life,” said Secretary Russ Strickland of MDEM. “The Maryland Resilience Toolkit offers our communities the resources they need to shape a more resilient Maryland, where communities thrive.” |
Who Is the Toolkit for?
The Maryland Resilience Toolkit is designed for a broad audience that plays a vital role in Maryland’s hazard resilience efforts, including:
- State and Local Governments: Supporting operational planners and leadership teams to create robust resilience strategies.
- Resilience Authorities: Assisting local entities with the tools to promote community resilience at every level.
- Businesses and Nongovernmental Organizations: Empowering organizations to take proactive steps in risk mitigation.
Why Is It Important?
MOR’s vision is to build stronger communities, infrastructure, and systems capable of meeting future challenges for all Marylanders. The Maryland Resilience Toolkit reflects this vision by helping all Marylanders access the resources and opportunities needed to stay safe and resilient, including those that advance environmental justice and uplift underserved communities. The Toolkit empowers users with the knowledge and tools necessary for success.
“I’m incredibly proud of all the Maryland Office of Resilience has achieved since we established it in 2022,” said Senator Katie Fry Hester. “The office has steadfastly worked to create the Toolkit which will allow it to support locals in applying for federal funding for flood resilience, cybersecurity, and more. From the appointment of our State’s first Chief Resilience Officer, to the launch of the State’s resilience strategy process, to the introduction of the Resilience Toolkit, we’re making Maryland stronger and more resilient every day.”
The Toolkit’s development represents Maryland’s ongoing commitment to proactive resilience planning. It also underscores the belief that resilience must be collaborative, inclusive, and far-reaching—touching not just coastal areas, but every community across the State.
About the Maryland Office of Resilience
MOR promotes coordination and collaboration of experts and stakeholders across the State of Maryland to build community capacity and drive resilience. As Maryland’s coordinators of resilience strategy and practice, MOR aims to equitably strengthen the State of Maryland’s resilience. By promoting collaboration, equity, and strategic investments, MOR ensures Maryland’s resilience planning is inclusive, community-centered, and future-focused.
About the Maryland Department of Emergency Management
MDEM is a national leader in emergency management that provides Maryland residents, organizations, and emergency management partners with expert information, programmatic activities, and leadership in the delivery of financial, technical, and physical resources “to shape a resilient Maryland where communities thrive.” We do this by being Maryland’s designated source of official risk reduction and consequence management information.
For more information about MDEM or MOR visit mdem.maryland.gov, follow MDEM’s X’s (formerly Twitter) feed at @MDMEMA, or follow MDEM’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA.
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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
Travis Brown, travis.brown2@maryland.gov, 410-702-3726
24/7 line: 877-636-2872
Maryland Office of Resilience Unveils Comprehensive Resilience Toolkit
November 12th, 2024Empowering Communities With Funding Information, Planning Resources, and Technical Support to Tackle Future Challenges
HANOVER, MD (November 12, 2024) — The Maryland Office of Resilience (MOR), which is part of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), is proud to announce the launch of the Maryland Resilience Toolkit, available at ResilientMaryland.com. This new tool is designed to equip local governments, State agencies, community leaders, businesses, and nonprofits with access to the resources needed to strengthen hazard resilience across Maryland.
The Maryland Resilience Toolkit is a one-stop shop for resilience information and resources that can help communities across the State adapt to and overcome a wide range of evolving risks, from climate change and natural hazards to infrastructure challenges. By offering access to resilience grant opportunities and best practices, the Toolkit ensures that Maryland’s unique communities—from urban centers to rural towns—can build stronger infrastructure, protect their environments, and safeguard their people.
“The key to a resilient Maryland lies within our State’s ability to be prepared to adapt, withstand, and swiftly recover from disruptions to daily life,” said Secretary Russ Strickland of MDEM. “The Maryland Resilience Toolkit offers our communities the resources they need to shape a more resilient Maryland, where communities thrive.”
Who Is the Toolkit for?
The Maryland Resilience Toolkit is designed for a broad audience that plays a vital role in Maryland’s hazard resilience efforts, including:
- State and Local Governments: Supporting operational planners and leadership teams to create robust resilience strategies.
- Resilience Authorities: Assisting local entities with the tools to promote community resilience at every level.
- Businesses and Non Governmental Organizations: Empowering organizations to take proactive steps in risk mitigation.
Why Is It Important?
MOR’s vision is to build stronger communities, infrastructure, and systems capable of meeting future challenges for all Marylanders. The Maryland Resilience Toolkit reflects this vision by helping all Marylanders access the resources and opportunities needed to stay safe and resilient, including those that advance environmental justice and uplift underserved communities. The Toolkit empowers users with the knowledge and tools necessary for success.
“I’m incredibly proud of all the Maryland Office of Resilience has achieved since we established it in 2022,” said Senator Katie Fry Hester. “The office has steadfastly worked to create the Toolkit which will allow it to support locals in applying for federal funding for flood resilience, cybersecurity, and more. From the appointment of our State’s first Chief Resilience Officer, to the launch of the State’s resilience strategy process, to the introduction of the Resilience Toolkit, we’re making Maryland stronger and more resilient every day.”
The Toolkit’s development represents Maryland’s ongoing commitment to proactive resilience planning. It also underscores the belief that resilience must be collaborative, inclusive, and far-reaching—touching not just coastal areas, but every community across the State.
About the Maryland Office of Resilience
MOR promotes coordination and collaboration of experts and stakeholders across the State of Maryland to build community capacity and drive resilience. As Maryland’s coordinators of resilience strategy and practice, MOR aims to equitably strengthen the State of Maryland’s resilience. By promoting collaboration, equity, and strategic investments, MOR ensures Maryland’s resilience planning is inclusive, community-centered, and future-focused.
About the Maryland Department of Emergency Management
MDEM is a national leader in emergency management that provides Maryland residents, organizations, and emergency management partners with expert information, programmatic activities, and leadership in the delivery of financial, technical, and physical resources “to shape a resilient Maryland where communities thrive.” We do this by being Maryland’s designated source of official risk reduction and consequence management information.
For more information about MDEM or MOR visit mdem.maryland.gov, follow MDEM’s X’s (formerly Twitter) feed at @MDMEMA, or follow MDEM’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA.
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MDEM Coordination Role in 2024 Beach Waste Incident
September 19th, 2024In an effort to clarify roles related to the medical waste incident in the Middle Atlantic region, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) would like to emphasize that we are not leading an investigation into this incident. The Department lacks legal or statutory authority to perform investigations, nor are we equipped with the tools to conduct such an investigation.
Our Department is leading the coordination of State, local and federal agencies responding to the incident. We have been hosting daily coordination calls since the incident began over the weekend, as well as facilitating interstate communication between partners from neighboring Delaware and Virginia. While there is not a single lead response agency, Emergency Management from Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia are in close coordination.
- Because the debris has washed ashore over three states, agencies focused first on safety and clean up, and are still working to determine the best course of action as waste is collected and beaches open.
- State, local and federal agencies which have ownership of the waterfront beaches have been asked to secure any collected medical waste.
- In Maryland, Ocean City, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the United States National Park Service will continue to collect debris from the coastal areas they are responsible for, and will make decisions related to the reopening of the beaches for recreation and fishing. This is similar to the processes in Delaware and Virginia. These agencies are sharing media inquiries when appropriate to send questions to the correct subject matter expert.
- This is an ongoing incident and we ask residents and visitors to the seaside areas to follow directions and advice from those responsible for the beaches you wish to visit for information about reopening.
We thank all of the State, local, and federal partners on the Delmarva Peninsula for their collaboration in responding to this incident and we also thank residents and visitors for their patience and cooperation.