County Shelters Available for Those Needing to Relocate
PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. (August 27, 2011) — The Calvert County Commissioners have ordered a mandatory evacuation of all homes within 100 feet of the cliffs along the Chesapeake Bay as Hurricane Irene approaches. The storm brings the potential for high winds, heavy rain and large battering waves in the bay that may pose a danger for unstable cliff areas. Calvert County residents who live in low-lying areas are also urged to secure their properties and relocate until the storm passes.
Temporary shelters will open beginning at noon today for those who need to relocate. The following sites will be open:
Huntingtown High School, 4125 Solomons Island Rd. (Route 2/4), Huntingtown
Southern Middle School, 9615 H G Trueman Rd., Lusby
Calvert High School, 520 Fox Run Blvd., Prince Frederick
Residents who need to relocate should follow these procedures:
-- DO NOT dial 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency.
-- Gather items you will need to take with you.
-- Turn off lights and appliances (except refrigerators and freezers).
-- Close and lock windows and doors.
-- Use your own vehicle to evacuate. Offer rides to neighbors who may not have transportation.
-- If you need a ride or special assistance, call 410-535-0396 or 0314.
-- There is one pet-friendly shelter located at the Calvert High School Career Center. Pets must be in cages and owners must provide food, medications and proof of immunizations. Pet owners will shelter in the gymnasium of Calvert High School.
Relocation Supplies Checklist
-- Medical supplies (prescriptions, other medication, first aid kit)
-- Money (cash, checkbook, credit cards, important personal and financial documents)
-- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, shaving supplies, eye care supplies, washcloth, towels)
-- Clothing
-- Baby supplies (formula, diapers, favorite toys)
-- Blankets, sleeping bags, pillows
-- Portable radio and batteries
-- Special diet food if you have a special diet
-- Road maps
-- Non-perishable food
-- Bottled water
Current forecasts call for wind gusts over 39 miles per hour beginning late Saturday, up to eight inches of rain possible in some areas and an approximate three-feet storm surge beginning Saturday. Due to expected high winds and rainfall, residents should prepare for widespread power outages.
Residents should tune to local radio and TV stations, to the county website at www.co.cal.md.us or to Comcast channel 6 for the latest information on the storm. Residents who need nonemergency assistance can reach the Department of Public Safety at 410-535-0396 or 0314.