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Maryland Professional Volunteer Corps
August 27th, 2011* * * Fact Sheet * * *
Maryland Professional Volunteer Corps
Licensed health professionals are encouraged to register today to volunteer as part of Maryland’s MPVC program to assist those affected by Hurricane Irene.
Sign up is quick and easy by visiting http://MDResponds.dhmh.maryland.gov
The Maryland Professional Volunteer Corps (MPVC) consists of health care and community professionals ready to assist with disaster and emergency recovery during a declared emergency situation.
There is no financial compensation provided for work done as an MPVC volunteer. Once registered as a MPVC volunteer, your participation may be requested any time there is an emergency declaration or disaster in any area of Maryland.
A volunteer who registers with and is deployed by MPVC, when providing assistance in an emergency, is afforded immunity from personal liability under State law similar to that afforded to regular State employees and is treated as a State employee for purposes of coverage under the State’s self-insurance program and workers compensation.
The MPVC is a Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) administered by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. The MRC program coordinates the skills of practicing and retired physicians, nurses, other health professionals, and citizens who are eager to address their community’s ongoing public health needs and to help during large-scale emergency situations.
MPVC volunteers may deliver necessary public health services during a crisis, assist emergency response teams with victims, and provide care directly to those with less serious injuries and other health-related issues.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel is closed
August 27th, 2011Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel is closed until further notice authority of Virginia OEM.
President Obama Signs Maryland Emergency Declaration
August 27th, 2011The President today declared an emergency exists in the State of Maryland and ordered federal aid to supplement state and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Irene beginning on August 26, 2011, and continuing.
The President’s action authorizes the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Stafford Act, to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in the counties of Baltimore, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico, Worcester, and Baltimore City.
Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize, and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, will be provided at 75 percent federal funding.
W. Craig Fugate, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Department of Homeland Security, named Thomas J. McCool as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.
Tornado watches and warnings
August 27th, 2011Snow Hill, MD — Tornadoes are nature’s most violent storms, with whirling winds that can reach 300 mph. Spawned from powerful thunderstorms and Hurricane Irene, damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long.
Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. Pay attention to local media such as radio and television to monitor weather warnings in your area.
- Tornado Watch – Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms. Heed media updates and warnings.
- Tornado Warning – A tornado has been sited or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.
During a Tornado Watch
- Listen to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio or commercial media for updates.
- Be alert for an approaching storm, particularly a revolving funnel-shaped cloud. Other tornado danger signs include a dark, almost greenish sky; large hail; a large, dark, low-lying cloud; or a loud roar, similar to a freight train.
- Be warned that sometimes tornadoes develop so rapidly; there is no visible advance warning.
- Avoid places with wide-span roofs such as an auditorium, cafeteria, supermarket or shopping mall.
- Be prepared to take shelter immediately. Gather household members, pets and disaster supplies.
During a Tornado Warning
- In a home/house or small building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement or storm cellar. If there is none, go to an interior room on the lower level like a closet, interior hallway. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to cover your head and neck.
- Do not open windows. Use the time to seek shelter.
- Go to the center of the room, avoiding the corners, which attract debris.
- In large public buildings, go to predetermined shelter areas. Interior hallways on the lowest floor are usually safest. Stay away from windows and open spaces.
- In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest possible floor.
- Get out of vehicles, trailers and mobile homes immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy nearby building. Never try to outrun a tornado in a congested area.
- If caught outside with no shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential of flooding.
- Do not go under a bridge or overpass. You are safer in a low, flat location.
- Watch out for flying debris from tornadoes, the cause of most fatalities and injuries.
After a Tornado
- Listen to the media for the latest emergency information.
- Be aware of broken glass and downed power lines.
- Help injured or trapped persons. Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of death or further injury.
- Stay out of damaged buildings, returning only when authorities have deemed it safe.
- Use the telephone only in emergencies.
- Leave the area if you smell gas or chemical fumes.
- Take photographs/video of the damage for insurance purposes.
- Remember to help your neighbors, particularly those who may require special assistance.
Mandatory Evacuation Orders in Maryland: 6pm August 27
August 27th, 2011Evacuation Orders in Maryland
6pm August 27
Mandatory Evacuation Orders
Download the Mandatory Evacuation_Orders_in_Maryland here.
Survival Tips After a Hurricane Strikes
August 27th, 2011CPSC and USFA Warn About Deadly Dangers That Can Linger After Hurricane Irene Passes
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) are warning residents in hurricane-impacted areas about the deadly dangers that can remain even after Hurricane Irene strikes.
Consumers need to be especially careful during a loss of electrical power, as the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire increases at that time.
In order to power lights, to keep food cold or to cook, consumers often use gas-powered generators. CPSC and USFA warn consumers NEVER to use portable generators indoors or in garages, basements or sheds. The exhaust from generators contains high levels of carbon monoxide (CO) that can quickly incapacitate and kill.
“Don’t create your own disaster in the aftermath of a storm,” said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. “Never run a generator in or right next to a home. Carbon monoxide is an invisible killer. CO is odorless and colorless and it can kill you and your family in minutes.”
From 1999-2010, nearly 600 generator-related CO deaths have been reported to CPSC. CPSC is aware of an annual average of 81 deaths due to carbon monoxide poisoning from generators in recent years. The majority of the deaths occurred as a result of using a generator inside a home’s living space, in the basement or in the garage.
“We know from experience as victims try to recover from disasters, they will take unnecessary risks with candles, cooking and generators. These risks often result in additional and tragic life safety consequences,” said Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator Glenn A. Gaines. “When you consider the challenges faced by firefighters and their departments to also recover from the same disasters, it is important that all of us remember even the simplest of fire safety behaviors following disasters of any type.”
Do not put your family at risk. Follow these important safety tips from CPSC and USFA in the aftermath of a storm.
Portable Generators
Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open. Keep generators outside and far away from windows, doors and vents. Read both the label on your generator and the owner’s manual and follow the instructions. Any electrical cables you use with the generator should be free of damage and suitable for outdoor use.
Charcoal Grills and Camp Stoves
Never use charcoal grills or camp stoves indoors. Burning charcoal or a camp stove in an enclosed space can produce lethal levels of carbon monoxide. There were at least seven CO-related deaths from charcoal or charcoal grills in 2007.
CO Alarms
Install carbon monoxide alarms immediately outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home to protect against CO poisoning. Change the alarms’ batteries every year.
Electrical and Gas Safety
Stay away from any downed wires, including cable TV feeds. They may be live with deadly voltage. If you are standing in water, do not handle or operate electrical appliances. Electrical components, including circuit breakers, wiring in the walls and outlets that have been under water should not be turned on. They should be replaced unless properly inspected and tested by a qualified electrician.
Natural gas or propane valves that have been under water should be replaced. Smell and listen for leaky gas connections. If you believe there is a gas leak, immediately leave the house and leave the door(s) open. Never strike a match. Any size flame can spark an explosion. Before turning the gas back on, have the gas system checked by a professional.
Candles
Use caution with candles. If possible, use flashlights instead. If you must use candles, do not burn them on or near anything that can catch fire. Never leave burning candles unattended. Extinguish candles when you leave the room.
Consumers, fire departments and state and local health and safety agencies can download CPSC’s generator safety posters, door hangers and CO safety publications at CPSC’s CO Information Center or order free copies by contacting CPSC’s Hotline at (800) 638-2772.
Download USFA’s publications on disasters and fire safety and other safety issues at http://www.usfa.dhs.gov
HURRICANE IRENE MDTA FACILITY UPDATE – 10:45 p.m.
August 27th, 2011BALTIMORE, MD – The Tydings Memorial (I-95), the Thomas J. Hatem Memorial (US 40), the Harry W. Nice Memorial (US 301) and the Francis Scott Key (I-695) bridges are all now under Phase II Wind Restrictions. House trailers, empty box trailers, campers, recreational vehicles, hitch trailers with sides or any vehicle that cannot safely cross are prohibited from traveling the bridge.
Officials are also alternating traffic in both directions on the Nice Bridge due to standing water in the southbound lane.
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge (US 50/301) remains CLOSED.
Citizens are encouraged not to travel unless absolutely necessary.
24/7 Bay Bridge traffic conditions are available by calling the BAYSPAN Hotline at 1-877-229-7726.
EXECUTIVE POLLITT ORDERS EVACUATION OF SEGMENTS OF WICOMICO COUNTY NEAR RIVERS IN ANTICIPATION OF AFFECTS OF HURRICANE IRENE
August 26th, 2011Salisbury, MD
August 26, 2011
County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr. has issued a Declaration of Emergency for Wicomico County in anticipation of hurricane/tropical-storm strength winds and torrential rains that may begin in the county on August 27th as a result of Hurricane Irene. Mr. Pollitt urged citizens to NOT call 911 for hurricane-related information. He asks that citizens call a special “Hurricane Hotline” instead. That number is 410-548-9452.
After consultation with local emergency and public health personnel, Pollitt ordered the evacuation of segments of the county near the Nanticoke and Wicomico Rivers as part of the general Order. “While I know that it is greatly inconvenient to be evacuated,” emphasized Pollitt; “the experts have impressed upon me the real threat that the effects of this storm present to our county. There could be flooding up to 5 feet in lower areas; high winds and heavy rains upon saturated grounds could cause trees to fall on houses and roads. People on the wrong side of the flooding could become inaccessible to rescue workers should rescue be required. In brief, if Irene lives up to her expectations, we need to take every necessary precaution.”
Evacuation Details
—-Residents of the following areas are ordered to begin evacuating at 10:00 A.M. today and to complete the process by 4:00 P.M. tomorrow, August 27th. Tropical-force winds are anticipated to begin at about 4:00 P.M. on Saturday.
Areas in Wicomico County:
ZIP CODES: All of 21840 (Nanticoke Post Office)
All of 21814 (Bivalve Post Office)
All of 21865 (Tyaskin Post Office)
21856 West of Nebo Road (Quantico Post Office)
21830 West of Athol Rd. (Hebron Post Office)
21822 North and West of Upper Ferry Road (Allen Post Office)
All of 21837 (Mardela Post Office)
21861 North and West of Sharptown Road (Sharptown Post Office)
Areas In the City of Salisbury
Riverside Dr. from Douglas Rd. to Cooper Road on the West side of Riverside Drive.
Williams Landing Place, Wicomico St. (west of Riverside Dr.), Beauchamp St., Georgia Ave (west of Riverside Dr.) Ridge Road, N. Pinehurst on the Wicomico river side, Riverside Pines Court.
Cotton Patch Island, Bell Island Trail, Fitzwater Street,
King Street, Ford Street, Birch Street, Burton Street, Willow Street, W. Main Street between Mill Street and Fitzwater Street, Germania Circle,
Kent Ave, Queen Anne Street, Jefferson Street, Caroline Street, Dover Street, Liberty Street, Homer Street, Edgemore Avenue, Alexander Ave, Bowl Drive, Raymond Drive.
Anchorage Nursing Home
—-Besides alerts from the news media, affected residents will be notified by a pre-recorded phone call and loudspeaker announcements from fire and police vehicles.
Shelter
—-Citizens are urged to seek shelter with friends/relatives or at a motel or hotel. If this is not possible, shelter is available at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center, 500 Glen Avenue, Salisbury, MD. The shelter opens at 10:00 A.M. today and is pet-accommodating.
—-If citizens use the Civic Center shelter, it is suggested that they bring these items:
• Use backpack etc.
• Special items for infant, elderly or disabled members of the household
• A change of clothes (several changes)
• List of allergies to any drug (especially antibiotics) or food
• Copy of health insurance and identification cards
• Extra prescription eye glasses, hearing aid or other vital personal items
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Waterless hand soap
• Games, books etc.
• Baby food & diapers
• Toiletries (Moist towelettes, toilet paper, garbage bags & ties for personal sanitation)
• “Go-Kit” for your pets/service animals (food, crate, medical records, ID tags, leash, etc.)
• Blankets or sleeping bags for each person
• Prescription medications
• Special items for infant (baby food/diapers) , elderly or disabled members of the household
• Important Papers (Easy to access)
• Flashlights
• Identification
Closings
—-Upper Ferry and the Whitehaven Ferry will not operate on Saturday and Sunday. Citizens are urged to check the Ferry Hotline 410-543-2765.
—-The Landfill and transfer stations will close at noon on Saturday and will be closed on Sunday.
In issuing the Emergency Order, Mr. Pollitt said, “Our county staff has all plans in place for the protection of our citizens if this weather event becomes as challenging as anticipated. I fully realize that being ordered to leave one’s home is truly disturbing. On the other hand, preventing risky rescue operations as a result of high winds and flooding is well worth it. I know the citizens of Wicomico County will rise to meet this difficult situation just as have our dedicated employees.”
Mayor Declares State of Emergency for Annapolis
August 26th, 2011Urges Residents in Low-Lying Areas to Leave by Tomorrow
Annapolis, MD (08-26-11) Mayor Joshua J. Cohen is declaring a State of Emergency within the city limits, effective 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 26, due to the anticipated impact of Hurricane Irene.
Under this directive, the mayor is strongly urging residents in low-lying areas to evacuate by tomorrow afternoon. The Annapolis High School will open as a pet-friendly shelter at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 27.
Efforts to reach these residents are being handled by Annapolis Police and Fire officials, who will walk door to door contacting residents and providing information. The City of Annapolis Office of Emergency Management has created an emergency notification and will be calling anyone in or near a potential flood zone.
“We expect most of the residents who need to evacuate will be able to stay with friends or family that live on higher ground,” said Mayor Cohen. “For those who need a place to stay, Annapolis High School will open, and for those who need assistance we can provide transportation. Overall, we expect about one thousand homes to be affected under the most severe conditions.”
To this end, the mayor has ordered all four City garages to allow any residents who want to evacuate to park for free. Anyone needing assistance with transportation to the shelter should call 410-260-2211 after 3:00 p.m. Saturday, August 27.
As part of the State of Emergency, the mayor activated the hurricane call center effective 10:00 a.m. Anyone requesting information or needing non-emergency assistance related to the hurricane can call this number 24 hours a day through the duration of this event. The phone number is 410-260-2211.
The current path puts Hurricane Irene over the Carolina Outer Banks Saturday afternoon. Annapolis could begin to feel the effects of the storm late Saturday morning, with winds gusting to 60 mph in the afternoon. Gusts will be at their peak in Annapolis between 6:00 p.m. Saturday to 8 a.m. Sunday. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect.
Go to http://www.annapolis.gov/ for updated information.
***TODAY*** GOVERNOR O’MALLEY TO GIVE HURRICANE IRENE UPDATE
August 26th, 2011ANNAPOLIS, MD (August 25, 2011) – TODAY at 2:30 p.m., Governor O’Malley will hold a press conference to give an update on Hurricane Irene.
The press conference will be streamed here.
WHAT: Governor O’Malley to hold press conference on Hurricane Irene
WHEN: TODAY, Friday, August 26, 2011 at 2:30 p.m.
WHERE: Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA)
5401 Rue St. Lo Drive
Reisterstown, MD