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Utility Disruption

Snow storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms, and numerous other hazards can lead to a disrutpion in utilities. When preparing for hazards that may affect Montgomery County, it's important to know how those hazards may disrupt power, water, and gas service.

Water Disruption

Emergencies such as hurricanes or water main breaks may lead to water disruption. Prepare for a possible disruption by taking the following steps:

• Learn how to shut off the main water valve in your house
• Ensure you have a three day supply of water in your emergency kit – one gallon per person per day.
• Insulate your pipes before cold weather arrives

Power Disruption
Strong winds or heavy snow can lead to power outages throughout the county. Prepare for a disuption by taking the following steps:

• Have a flashlight and extra batteries in your emergency kit
• Keep a radio and extra batters in your kit so you can stay informed even if you don't have accees to television or a computer
• It is important to report a power outage to your power company. Keep your company's outage reporting line in a place that's easily accessable. Keep a hard-lined phone in your emergency kit if you normally use a cordless phone (which won't work without power).

Gas Disruption

• If you smell gas, contact your gas supplier's emergency number (only after you have moved a safe distance away from the odor)
• Do not do anything to create an ignition source (such as lighting a match)
• Do not start your car around, run any electrical equipment, or turn on any lights around the leak

Listen to the radio or sign up for Alert Montgomery to receive updates about major water disruptions.

For more information:

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission Emergency Information

PEPCO Emergency Information 

 Washington Gas Emergency Information