Harford County Officials Warn of Active Hurricane Season

By Kaitlyn Carr

When superstorm Sandy hit last year, were you prepared?

If the answer is no, then Harford County officials want to ensure that doesn't happen again.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently announced it is predicting six to nine hurricanes during the peak hurricane season, which runs mid-August through mid-October.

“Hurricane season is upon us,” said Harford County Emergency Manager Rick Ayers in a release. “It is everyone’s responsibility to plan for and make appropriate preparations for severe weather, including hurricanes." 

The Harford County Department of Emergency Services recommends residents prepare for severe weather events, especially hurricanes, by reviewing their storm survival plan. This includes taking the opportunity now to restock any supplies, including food, water and other items to help get through a storm.  

• Ensure homes are equipped with portable flashlights and fresh batteries.  In the event of the loss of electricity from a storm, use flashlights in lieu of candles for emergency lighting.

• Have at least a three-day supply of fresh water and canned goods available.  

• Keep at least one battery-powered portable radio available and in good working order, to monitor news and weather information.

• Put generators outdoors, away from the home or an enclosed area, if loss of electricity occurs, to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

For more storm preparedness tips, go to the Harford County Department of Emergency Services website at www.harfordpublicsafety.org and click on the “Surviving the Storm” icon.  Additionally, citizens can learn more about preparations for hurricanes at www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

Residents are also encouraged to add their cell phone numbers to the Harford County Emergency Notification System by clicking the“Sign Up Now for Notifications” icon on the main webpage or by contacting the Department of Emergency Services at 410-638-4900.