LA PLATA, Md. (Sept. 5, 2008, 5:55 p.m.)—Charles County Government is asking their citizens to be prepared for Tropical Storm Hanna and the impact that she could make on Charles County, as well as the Southern Maryland region.
Charles County officials want all citizens to be aware of the following information:
-- A phone number has been established for persons who may need information or non-emergency assistance during Tropical Storm Hanna. The number is 301-609-3435 and will become active as of 6 a.m., Saturday, September 6. For emergency situations, citizens are still asked to call 911.
-- The County has established a centralized shelter for residents at La Plata High School, 6035 Radio Station Road, La Plata. The shelter will open to the public at 9 a.m., Saturday, September 6. Any residents who desire to seek shelter should report at 9 a.m. and no earlier. The shelter will operate until the County has determined that it is safe for residents to return to their homes.
-- Any residents who leave their homes are asked to bring their pets to the shelter with them. The County's Animal Control Division has established a temporary animal shelter at the site.
-- Residents who go to the shelter are asked to bring items necessary for their welfare, including sleeping bag/blanket and pillow, medications, activities for children, change of clothes, diapers, snacks and baby food.
-- For transportation to the shelter, special needs residents are asked to call 301-609-3435 for assistance.
For continuing information during the storm residents are reminded to tune into local television and radio stations: WMDM 97.7 FM, WSMD 98.3 FM, WKIK 102.9 FM, WPTX 1690 AM, WTOP 103.5 FM, WRC-TV Channel 4, Fox News Channel 5, WJLA-TV Channel 7, News Channel 8, WUSA-TV Channel 9, Charles County Government Cable Channel 95.
Source: Charles County Board of Commissioners
SoMd.com's Editor's Note: Wireless phones will not work during a power outage. The telephone service provided to homes via landlines is typically very reliable, even when the power fails because the system runs on DC power and the phone companies provide their own power backup systems. We recommend you obtain and keep a conventional hardwired telephone on hand in case of emergencies. They are typically available at big box stores like Target and Wal-Mart for a few dollars.