Anne Arundel County Executive John R. Leopold is advising Anne Arundel County residents to prepare now for the approaching winter weather event that is expected to have a significant impact on the area.   “Now is the time to take precautionary steps and obtain emergency supplies” said County Executive Leopold.

The latest predictions are projecting that the Baltimore Washington area could receive between 16-24 inches of snow which can be a serious hazard to those who are unprepared or who do not respond prudently to storm conditions. Citizens can minimize their risk of injury to themselves, as well as, property damage from winter storms by taking the following precautions.

Before the Storm:

·            Stay Home unless absolutely necessary.

·            Have vehicles properly winterized and equipped with snow tires or chains. Carry a “survival kit” in your vehicle consisting of blankets, candles, matches, non-perishable foods, drinking water, protective clothing, traction material, and a shovel.  Eliminate all non-essential travel during storms.  Maintain a full tank of gas if travel during adverse weather is absolutely necessary.

·            Ensure the proper operation of home emergency equipment such as battery-operated radios, flashlights, emergency heating sources, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers.  We recommend that you do not use candles in the event of a power outage.

 ·            Make sure furnaces, wood burning stoves and fireplaces have been checked for safe operation and have had the chimneys cleaned.  Always dispose of fireplace ashes in an approved metal container, do not put ashes in a plastic/paper bag or other unapproved container.

·            Have a supply of non-perishable food/water for use in emergencies and keep an adequate supply of medications and baby supplies on hand, if needed.

·            Plan precautions to prevent water pipes from freezing during periods of intense cold, such as proper insulation of pipes or draining water from exposed pipes.  As a last resort, maintain minimum water flow to prevent freezing.

·            Be aware that heavier than normal snows may cause leaks and collapse weakened or small structures such as sheds or other outbuildings. 

·            Residents/owners should ensure that gutters and roof drains are clear to ensure the removal of water from roof areas.

·            Be alert to storm WATCHES or WARNINGS issued by the National Weather Service and broadcast by local radio and television stations.

During and/or After the Storm:

·            Wear proper clothing for weather conditions.  Several layers of loose fitting, warm clothing is better than one thick garment.  Wear hats and mittens or gloves when exposed to the cold.

·            Everyone should pace their physical activity such as snow shoveling or pushing cars, regardless of age or physical condition, to avoid over-exertion.  Elderly persons should be cautious in attempting snow removal.

·            Check on elderly family and neighbors.

·            Be aware of and stay clear of any downed power lines.

·            Never run gas operated equipment such has generators inside a structure. Even a garage with the door open may not be adequately ventilated.

·            We are asking residents to “Adopt a Fire Hydrant.”  As residents dig out from the storm we are asking that they assist the County Fire department by clearing an area around any fire hydrants located on or adjacent to their property.  This will allow the hydrants to be used in the event of an emergency.

·            Commercial and business property owners must ensure that the following are completed in accordance with the Anne Arundel County Fire Prevention Code:

o        Ensuring that snow is cleared to provide appropriate exiting and Fire Department access is maintained.  Snow should be removed from all exit doors to ensure that they open at least 90 degrees. These doors should include those along the back or side of the building that may not normally be used. 

o        A clear path of travel must also be provided to a parking lot or roadway.

o        Roadways around the building including non-paved fire lanes must also be cleared to provide 20 feet of clear width to ensure that emergency vehicle access is maintained for all portions of the building.

o        A minimum of a 3-foot space must be cleared on all sides of a fire hydrant to provide adequate access for firefighting operations.