Recent tragic fires and severe storms are a reminder that having a plan and being prepared are key in any disaster or emergency situation. In recognition of September as National Preparedness Month, the Harford County Department of Emergency Services is hosting a Public Safety & Preparedness Day on Saturday, September 16. The free, family-friendly event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 2220 Ady Road in Forest Hill, citizens of all ages can meet the people who help to keep them safe every day.
Watch as members of the Harford County special operations team rappel from the roof of the 911 center, visitors can climb into an ambulance to see the state-of-the-art equipment medics use in emergency situations and other exciting demonstrations. Attendees will also learn ideas for what you need in a home survival or emergency evacuation kit.
“Join us to get a firsthand look at some of the tools public safety professionals use to help keep our community safe,” Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly said. “Being prepared and having a plan can make all the difference in keeping your family safe when disasters strike.”
A Maryland State Police Medevac helicopter will be on site and dispatchers from the 911 center will be on hand to answer questions. Representatives from the Harford County Department of Public Works division, Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office and other agencies will be there to offer safety advice and demonstrations.
For those who cannot attend Public Safety & Preparedness Day, the Harford County Department of Emergency Services offers these safety tips:
- Sign up to receive Harford County’s cellphone emergency alerts at https://harfordcounty.bbcportal.com/.
- Make an emergency plan with your family.
- Have an emergency supply kit ready with a minimum of three to seven days of nonperishable food and water (1 gallon of water per person per day at a minimum).
- Remember to stock food and water for your pets.
- Check your supply of prescription medicines and ensure you have extra on hand.
- Ensure cell phones and other mobile devices are fully charged.
- Stay tuned to radio station WXCY 103.7 FM and local TV news for official weather information.
If there is an emergency, and roads flood, wires are down and power is out, remember:
- Don’t venture out. Stay inside and listen to radio station WXCY 103.7 FM and local TV news for updates.
- If you must go out and encounter water-covered roads, turn around, don’t drown – just 1 to 2 feet of water can sweep away a vehicle.
- Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food as long as possible.
- If you are using a portable generator, use it outside, away from doors and windows in a well-ventilated area. Never run a generator in a garage or near open doors or windows.
For more information on how to stay safe in the event of any emergency, read or download our Emergency Preparedness Guide.
