MDEM Newsroom - - Page 3 MDEM Newsroom

Maryland Department of Emergency Management Highlights Importance of Preparedness for Nuclear Power Plant Emergencies

REISTERSTOWN, MD (April 24, 2024) — The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), alongside other state, local, federal and private-sector partners,  successfully completed the Biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise for the Peach Bottom Green Energy facility (previously known as Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station) on Tuesday,  April 16, 2024. Two days later, MDEM joined other partners in a joint Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) along the Potomac River and C&O Canal between Dam 3 and the town of Brunswick. Both of those training exercises took place while MDEM continued to support the State response to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse and the subsequent reduction of activity at the Port of Baltimore. “Participation in exercises like the Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise not only evaluates our readiness but also strengthens our ability to protect our communities in times of crises,” stated Secretary Russ Strickland of MDEM. “We can’t take a break from training and exercising, even if we are actively involved in a response or activation of our State Emergency Operations Center. Our collaboration with federal, State, and local partners ensures that we are well-prepared to mitigate the impact of any potential nuclear incident and safeguard the well-being of our residents.” MDEM’s proactive engagement in emergency exercises, such as PBEX and SAREX, reflects its commitment to public safety and enhancing interagency collaboration. The radiological exercise, referred to as PBEX, also included the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), officials in Cecil and Harford counties, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA), Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP), and local officials in southern Pennsylvania. The exercise was evaluated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The exercise underscored the critical importance of preparedness for all hazards, including nuclear power plant incidents, and assessed the response capabilities of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the State of Maryland within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone surrounding Peach Bottom, in Delta, Pa., along the Susquehanna River. SAREX was a collaborative effort, simulating a response for a hypothetical flood and bridge failure on the Potomac and C&O Canal. MDEM helped coordinate the event, which included the Maryland State Police (MSP), Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Police, Maryland National Guard (MDNG), CSX, and rescue teams and other officials from Frederick and Washington counties. Numerous other water rescue teams from around Maryland simulated a robust mutual aid response to rescue dozens of “victims” by boat, helicopter, and land search teams with K9s and mounted teams. SAREX exemplified the importance of interagency coordination and preparedness in managing emergencies. MDEM reminds Maryland residents and visitors to have multiple ways to receive alerts. For more information, residents can also go to MDEM’s website at mdem.maryland.gov, follow MDEM’s Twitter feed at @MDMEMA, or follow MDEM’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA. To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland, text MdReady to 211-631 or text MdListo for Spanish.

MDEM joined other agencies at the Maryland Department of the Environment’s Emergency Operations Center as part of a federally graded exercise simulating an attack at the Peach Bottom nuclear facility in Delta, Pa. Photo Courtesy: David McCallister.

Rescue operations during the SAREX. Photo courtesy: Digital Media Production Unit MCFRS.

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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

Great Maryland Twister Test Set For Wednesday, April 10 at 10 a.m.

MDEM, NWS Encourage Marylanders to Practice What to Do During a Tornado Warning; Alert Will Broadcast Over NOAA Weather Radios As Part of Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week

REISTERSTOWN, MD (April 9, 2024) — Maryland residents are invited to participate in the Great Maryland Twister Test on Wednesday, April 10, to practice what to do in case the National Weather Service (NWS) issues a tornado warning. The 10 a.m. drill is being coordinated by the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), NWS, and other partners as part of the 2024 Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week, April 8-14, 2024. At 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 10, the NWS will issue a statement over National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radios about the tornado drill. Be aware, while an Emergency Alert System (EAS) test code will precede this message, that Required Monthly Test (RMT) code may not trigger some weather radios. This test code will also not trigger Wireless Emergency Alerts over cell phones. Schools, businesses, community groups, and individuals can practice what to do when a tornado warning is issued by NWS. While everyone is encouraged to participate in the drill Wednesday at 10 a.m., you can practice at other times too. Families, for example, might want to practice when everyone is at home. “Whether you are in school, at work, or at home, knowing the safest place to go during a tornado warning is vital,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “Tornadoes strike with little or no warning, so knowing how to receive a warning and quickly move to safety is essential.”

If you are under a tornado warning:

• Go to a safe shelter immediately, such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or a small interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
• Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
• Do not go under an overpass or bridge. You’re safer in a low, flat location.
• Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.
• Use your arms to protect your head and neck. If they are close by, you can also use pillows, blankets, or couch cushions to protect those parts of your body.
• Make plans to go to a public shelter if you can’t stay home.
• Go to NOAA Weather Radio and your local news or official social media accounts for updated emergency information. Follow the instructions of State and local officials.

Tornadoes happen almost every year in Maryland – sometimes even violent and deadly ones. Since 2000, fatalities have been reported from tornadoes in LaPlata (Charles County), College Park (Prince George’s County), and Baltimore City. They are violently rotating columns of air that  can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris.

While most common in our warm season in the afternoons and evenings, tornadoes can happen anytime and anywhere in Maryland when conditions are right. They bring intense, damaging winds that are often 80-110 miles per hour, and sometimes devastating winds as great as 150-200 mph that can destroy buildings. These rotating funnel clouds that extend to the ground create a path of damage often as wide as a football field, and sometimes up to a mile wide.

In conjunction with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and the Maryland Center for School Safety (MCSS), public and private schools have been given guidance for directing students, faculty, and staff to the safest areas of their facilities during a tornado warning. Schools are being encouraged to practice during the Great Maryland Twister Test at 10 a.m. Wednesday if at all possible, and at other times if needed.

The NWS Baltimore/Washington Weather Forecast Office, which covers most Maryland jurisdictions, is coordinating this statement and drill in conjunction with their colleagues at NWS Mount Holly (PA), which covers Caroline, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot counties, and NWS Wakefield (VA), which handles Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

Marylanders are also encouraged to download the MdReady WebApp, which gives instant access to a wide array of emergency notifications and preparedness information to residents and visitors. 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 (coming later in April, users will be able to choose from 178 languages).

This also is the 50th anniversary of one of the worst tornado outbreaks in United States history, on April 3, 1974. While none of the tornadoes in this system made it to Maryland, some were as close as Virginia and West Virginia. To learn more about this deadly outbreak, please view this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVHcvaWAoks

Visit our Severe Storms Awareness Week page for more information: mdem.maryland.gov/Pages/severe-storms-week.aspx. To find more preparedness information for severe storms and other hazards, please visit the following websites: mdem.maryland.gov/Pages/types-of-emergencies.aspx, weather.gov/safety, or ready.gov. 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

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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

MDEM, NWS Urge Marylanders to “Be MdReady, Prepare Before the Storm” While Focusing on Spring Storm Hazards

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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

Governor Moore’s Statement on the Collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge

Published: 3/26/2024

Governor Moore Declares First State of Preparedness Ahead of Dangerous Winter Weather System

Published: 1/9/2024

Read full release here: https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press/pages/governor-moore-declares-first-state-of-preparedness-ahead-of-dangerous-winter-weather-system.aspx

What Does a “State of Preparedness” Mean?

What does a “State of Preparedness” mean?

When the Governor declares a State of Preparedness it enhances the state’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential hazards and threats in advance of an actual disaster.

A State of Preparedness may be declared by the governor when there is heightened risk of disruption to the lives of Marylanders. The order directs the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of state government ahead of potential impacts from hazards or threats, providing a vital layer of protection for Marylanders without necessitating a State of Emergency.

The new order recognizes the importance of preparedness, early coordination, and proactive protection, providing the capacity to act decisively without declaring a full State of Emergency. As part of a phased approach, the order provides more flexibility to respond proportionally to level of risk, helps ensure that resources are efficiently managed, and promotes preparedness is a top priority even in the absence of a full State of Emergency to mobilize resources and support more efficiently.

When a State of Preparedness is declared, it is imperative for Maryland residents and visitors to stay informed through trusted local and state government communications and news sources and to follow the recommended preparedness actions.

Here is additional information about this state of preparedness:

Will schools be closed?

States of Preparedness do not mandate school closures. It usually is the local school district’s decision to stay open or to close. Check with your school for up-to-date closure information.

Will stores and businesses be open?

This state of preparedness does not require employers to close. We ask that all employers consider employee safety at all times.

Can I drive on the roads?

Motorists are not prohibited from driving.  If you are a motorist and must drive and cannot change your plans, you should drive carefully and use common sense. You should also:

• Allow extra time to get to your  destinations.
• Let family or/and friends know what roads you plan to take and expected arrival times.
• Contact family/friends after you arrive to your destination.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO STAY SAFE

• Stay vigilant, use common sense, and continue to monitor the forecast
  • We are asking all Marylanders to remain vigilant, to stay tuned to local news stations for the latest updates, and to follow any instructions local officials may provide during this state of emergency.
• Those under a watches and warnings should be prepared and exercise caution during the state of preparedness. 
  • Widespread power outages are possible, so we urge people to keep their devices charged and monitor trusted local forecasts for your part of the State. 
    • Always use extreme caution near downed power lines and wires. For your own safety, assume that they are live and carrying electricity.
    • Keep a distance of at least 30 feet and report it to 9-1-1 from a safe location.
    • NEVER drive over downed wires. If you are driving in an area with downed trees or utility poles, slow down, scan the road and stay away from any debris that may be caught in a downed wire.
    • If your vehicle comes in contact with a downed wire, STAY INSIDE! Call 9-1-1 to request assistance and if someone approaches your car, roll down your window and ask them to keep their distance.
  • Follow any protective actions recommended by local officials.
  • Make sure to have an emergency supply kit stocked with non-perishable food, a three day supply of water, and other necessities
  • Make sure you stock items for those with special needs and pets.
  • Try to avoid outdoor activities and travel during the storm if at all possible.
  • Know the difference between a WATCH and a WARNING.
    • WATCH: conditions are favorable for a hurricane, tropical storm, flooding, or other severe weather event.
    • WARNING: ACT NOW! Severe weather is happening; take immediate precautions.
• Don’t walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Remember: Turn around, don’t drown!

Sixth Annual Maryland Winter Safety Week Begins

MDEM, FEMA, NWS, State Agencies Partner to Increase Public’s Awareness of Winter Hazards

REISTERSTOWN, MD (December 4, 2023) — Governor Moore has proclaimed December 4 through 10, 2023 as Winter Safety Week in Maryland. The initiative, aimed at enhancing public awareness of winter hazards, emergency preparedness, and safety measures, is set to kick off with the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) leading the charge.

“In recognizing the paramount importance of preparedness and safety during the winter season, we are committed to fostering winter safety within all our communities,” said Governor Moore. “I therefore officially proclaim December 4 to December 10, 2023 as Maryland Winter Safety Week. Let us unite in prioritizing the safety of Marylanders this winter. Together, we can create a winter-ready Maryland where every resident is informed, equipped, and safeguarded against the challenges that colder months may bring.”

MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland emphasizes the importance of taking winter safety precautions seriously, stating, “Winter brings with it several hazards that cause injuries and cost lives and money every year. It is precisely because of this that we must take winter safety precautions seriously.”

Maryland Winter Safety Week, in collaboration with State, local, and federal partners, will feature a series of informative activities, tips, and trivia through MDEM’s social media channels. The focus extends beyond traditional winter safety measures.

The week will also address the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to extreme cold, emphasizing the impact on vulnerable populations and those with chronic diseases. It can lower body temperature, weaken the immune system, and aggravate chronic diseases like asthma, arthritis, and diabetes, among others. MDEM and its partners stress the importance of community support, urging residents to check on neighbors who may be particularly vulnerable to winter weather.

Indoor safety concerns escalate for thousands facing power outages or financial constraints preventing adequate home heating. Individuals with chronic illnesses face heightened risks in cold environments. Winter exacerbates cases of carbon monoxide exposure, particularly as people resort to generators, stoves, and heating systems that may lack proper maintenance. It’s crucial to recognize that if a space is unsafe for operating a gas lawnmower or a car, the same applies to the operation of a portable generator.

Maryland Winter Safety Week will also provide valuable tips on fire safety, home preparedness, and safe winter driving. Residents are encouraged to follow trusted weather sources, such as the National Weather Service (NWS) and local news media, to stay informed about predicted frozen precipitation or severe cold temperatures.

As Marylanders prepare for winter, MDEM remains committed to its vision to shape a more resilient Maryland where communities thrive and foster a culture of preparedness to help residents navigate the challenges of the season safely.

MDEM and other State partners have gathered numerous winter preparedness and safety tips that will be shared throughout Maryland Winter Safety Week and the winter season through our social media channels. Here are some of the highlights:

• Make sure you have multiple ways to receive alerts and you are registered with MdReady. To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland, text MdReady to 211-631 or text MdListo for Spanish.
• Check on the welfare of family, friends, and neighbors who are vulnerable to cold, snow, and ice, especially the elderly and those with access and functional needs.
• Practice safety when heating your home or workplace, be cautious when cooking, and ensure holiday lights and decorations are used properly. Consider using battery-operated flameless candles; they look and smell real!
• Build a home preparedness kit with winter supplies, such as snow shovels, ice-melting products, extra warm clothes and blankets, flashlights, and batteries.
• Follow trusted weather sources for predictions of frozen precipitation or severe cold temperatures.
• Make sure your car is ready for winter travel:
  • 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.
  • Check and winterize your vehicle, including all fluids, wiper blades, lights, and systems before the winter season begins.
  • 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.
• Identify your pet with up-to-date name tag (including your cell phone) and rabies tag. Your pet can also be microchipped as most vets or animal control agencies can scan the chip to help locate the owner.
• Never use your stove as a heating source.

Additional information about winter preparedness can be found on our website (www.mdem.maryland.gov), X (Twitter) feed, Facebook page, LinkedIn page, and YouTube site.

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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

Governor Moore Signs Executive Order to Enhance Government Coordination Ahead of Emergencies

Published: 11/20/2023

Governor Moore Appoints First Chief Sustainability Officer and Chief Resilience Officer in Maryland’s History

Published: 11/15/2023

Maryland Travel Safety Week Begins as Holiday Travel Exceeds Pre-Pandemic Levels

“Know Before You Go” and Prepare for Longer Travel Times; Practice Safe Travel Habits Year-Round

REISTERSTOWN, MD (November 13, 2023) — The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) wants to make sure all Maryland residents are as safe as possible as they travel during this 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 embark on the holiday season, it’s important to be especially vigilant during the busiest travel period of the year,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “During Maryland Travel Safety Week, I urge all residents to be alert and be prepared so you can have a safe and enjoyable holiday season. Plan ahead and leave plenty of extra time to deal with the inevitable delays so you will not have to rush.” MDEM designated November 13-19 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.

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. 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.

Other information for safe air travel can be found at Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport and the Transportation Security Administration.

Safety tips when traveling by railroad

• Stay alert and watch your bags and belongings at all times..
• Watch your step when boarding and leaving the train and moving from car to car.
• Board and exit a train only when it’s NOT moving.
• 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 from 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.
• Pay particular attention to your electronics, such as cell phones, tablets, and laptop computers.
• Use caution when on rail platforms and at bus drop-offs, especially when surfaces are wet or icy.

Here are some safety tips from Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Administration, which operates Metro bus and rail service in the Washington, D.C. area. Here are 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. You can find 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.

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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