June is the Start of Hurricane Season; County Offers Emergency Preparedness Tips

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Contact: Kathee Henning, 240-777-2323

For Immediate Release: June 1, 2000

June is the Start of Hurricane Season;
County Offers Emergency Preparedness Tips

June is the start of hurricane season, and the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management, Fire and Rescue Services, offers some hurricane preparedness tips. Residents are reminded that the effects of a hurricane or tropical storm can be far-reaching. Areas impacted directly by a hurricane or tropical storm can be affected by high winds and flooding. Fringe areas of these storms are vulnerable to tornadoes and flooding caused by heavy rain. Hurricane season traditionally continues through November.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips

Keep flashlights and battery-powered radios with extra batteries on hand, along with a basic first aide kit, emergency food and water, and a non-electric can opener.

Listen to the radio or television for hurricane progress reports.

Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys and garden tools; or anchor objects that cannot be brought inside but that could be wind-tossed.

Remove outdoor antennas, if possible.

Clean out gutters.

Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting in anticipation of a power outage. Open the door only when necessary and close quickly.

Refrain from putting out trash cans the night before the regular pick up.

Flooding

In anticipation of possible flooding, citizens are encouraged to:

Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container;

Avoid areas subject to flooding, including low spots, canals and streams, and do not attempt to drive over a flooded road - you can be stranded or trapped. The depth of the water and the condition of the road is not always obvious.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

High Winds

For downed trees due to high winds, report those on County property to the County's Department of Public Works and Transportation at 240-777-ROAD. To report trees that have fallen on utility lines, contact the local utility companies.

Trees that have fallen on private property are the responsibility of the property owner. The County's Division of Consumer Affairs advises homeowners to deal with established businesses only, and to call Consumer Affairs first to check on a business complaint record. Consumer Affairs can be reached at 240-777-3636.

For more information about changes in County programs and services, call the Emergency hotline at 240-777-6500. A recording offers a variety of information that includes the status of roads, schools, libraries, and recreation programs.

The County's Crisis Center is staffed 24-hours a day. The center can be reached at 301-315-4000.

To find out more about emergency preparedness, contact the County's Office of Emergency Management at 240-777-2300.

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