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Maryland Department of Emergency Management

MEMA Reminds Marylanders that September is National and Maryland Preparedness Month

Prepare to Protect: Preparing for Disasters is Protecting Everyone You Love

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (September 7, 2021)—September is National and Maryland Preparedness Month, and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) asks everyone to make sure they are prepared for emergencies.  As the remnants of Hurricane Ida demonstrated, Maryland has the potential for tornadoes, heavy rains and possible flooding and it is important to be prepared.

September is typically the height of the hurricane season in Maryland; it’s important to be ready for hurricane-related hazards, such as flooding, high winds, and tornados. These are all hazards that can affect the state even without a hurricane. It is important to have a family emergency plan, to have an emergency supply kit, and to be aware of the hazards that may affect you and the ones you care most about.

“While Ida is a stark reminder of the destructive capabilities of hurricanes, there are many hazards that can affect Marylanders every day of the year,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “Being prepared for all emergencies is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and the ones you love.”

Flooding is the  most common hazard in Maryland, and tornadoes, severe storms, dangerous heat, and severe winter storms are among the other potential hazards. We encourage all Marylanders to remain vigilant for all hazards that might affect them during September and throughout hurricane season. Also, the COVID-19 pandemic persists, which means we must continue to include accommodations for the pandemic in evacuation and sheltering plans, and extra items needed in an emergency supply kit, such as masks and hand sanitizer.

As part of Preparedness Month, MEMA will partner with other agencies to host a series of Take Action Tuesdays Facebook Live events at 12 noon:

  • Sept. 7: Insurance and Financial Considerations and Scams
  • Sept. 14: Emergency Supply Kit, Emergency Plan, and Pet Preparedness /Preparing Your Home
  • Sept. 21: Propane Safety/Water Safety
  • Sept. 28: Preparedness for Individuals with Access and Functional Needs /Preparedness for Older Adults.

MEMA also will be participating in Twitter chats on preparedness issues in September. Please follow MEMA on Facebook and Twitter @MDMEMA.

If you live near the ocean, the Chesapeake Bay or its tributaries, it also is important to understand Maryland’s Know Your Zone hurricane evacuation plan. To learn more about the program and hurricane preparedness in Maryland, visit KnowYourZoneMD.com

You can learn more about being prepared for any hazard from MEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Weather Service or the American Red Cross.

MEMA leadership and communications staff are available for interviews for media outlets and public affairs shows throughout the month. Please contact Jorge Castillo or Ed McDonough (contact below) for arrangements. 

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872