The Atlantic hurricane season began on June 1, and Worcester County Emergency Services encourages residents and visitors to take steps now to prepare for severe weather and other potential emergencies. Experience has shown that the best time to prepare is before a storm is approaching.
“Whether facing a hurricane, tropical storm, coastal flooding, or other emergency, advance planning can significantly reduce risks to you, your family, and your property,” WCES Director Chris Shaffer said. “Taking a few simple steps today can make a critical difference when severe weather threatens.”
One of the most important preparedness measures is assembling an emergency supply kit and developing a family emergency plan. Your plan should identify where family members will meet if they become separated and how you will communicate if normal methods of contact are unavailable.
Emergency supply kits should include essentials such as:
- Bottled water (one gallon per person per day)
- Nonperishable food and a manual can opener
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio
- First aid supplies
- Personal hygiene items
- Cell phone chargers and backup power banks
- Blankets, sleeping bags, and extra clothing
- Important documents stored in a waterproof container
Families should also include items specific to their needs, such as prescription medications, eyeglasses, infant supplies, medical equipment, pet necessities, and cash. Emergency supplies should be checked regularly and replaced as needed to ensure they remain usable.
Be sure to safeguard important documents as well, including insurance policies, identification, and proof of residency. Following a major storm, proof of residency may be required to access restricted areas affected by damage. Homeowners and renters should also review their insurance coverage and understand that flood damage is typically not covered under standard homeowners’ insurance policies.
Creating a home inventory before a storm can simplify the recovery process. Digital photos or videos of your home and belongings can help document losses and support insurance claims.
Pet owners should include their animals in emergency planning efforts. Emergency kits should contain food, water, medications, vaccination records, and other necessities for each pet. If evacuation becomes necessary, pet owners should identify pet-friendly accommodations or boarding options in advance.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed throughout hurricane season by monitoring local news, weather forecasts, and official emergency alerts. Wireless Emergency Alerts, NOAA Weather Radio, and local government communication channels provide critical information before, during, and after severe weather events.
Worcester County’s Family Emergency Preparedness Guide offers additional information on developing emergency plans, building disaster supply kits, and accessing important emergency contacts and resources. Electronic copies are available through Worcester County Emergency Services and at https://www.worcestermd.gov/departments/emergency-services.
Hurricane season serves as an important reminder that preparedness is a year-round responsibility. By planning ahead, residents and visitors can help protect themselves, their families, and their communities when severe weather strikes.