Mayor Keith R. Sydnor, in collaboration with Laurel’s Department of Community Resources and Emergency Management (CREM) and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), encourages residents to prepare for the winter hazards ahead.
According to MDEM, “Winter weather can present serious risks, from icy roads and power outages to extreme cold and fires caused by improper heating. Every year, winter hazards lead to preventable injuries, financial losses, and even fatalities. Winter Safety Week is about equipping Marylanders with the knowledge and tools to navigate the season safely and confidently. By working together and focusing on preparedness, we can build a Maryland that’s ready to weather the season safely.”
Last week, the 7th Annual Maryland Winter Safety Week took place. This year’s initiative highlighted the theme "Resilience Starts at Home.” By taking proactive steps to prepare for and mitigate against winter hazards, residents can better protect themselves, their families, and their communities. Throughout the week, MDEM shared information related to:
- Health Risks from Cold Weather
- Indoor Heating Safety
- Community Support
- MdReady Alert System
MDEM also provided helpful tips to prepare for the winter season such as:
- Stay Informed: Have multiple ways to receive alerts, including MdReady and trusted weather sources like the National Weather Service (NWS).
- Keep a car emergency kit in your vehicle, including winter supplies and essentials. Having a car emergency kit can be the difference between surviving being stranded in a severe winter storm or blizzard and getting frostbite, or worse, dying.
- Winterize Your Vehicle: Check tires, battery, and emergency supplies such as a scraper, first-aid kit, and jumper cables.
- Keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration offers these tips for safe winter driving.
- Ensure Home Safety: Insulate pipes, test smoke detectors, and avoid using stoves or unventilated generators as heat sources.
“As we enter the coldest months of the year, being prepared is not merely a suggestion; it's a collective responsibility!” We urge all City of Laurel residents to be winter ready and help ensure that Maryland is safer and more resilient this winter.
For more information regarding the 7th Annual Maryland Winter Safety Week, please visit their website at https://news.maryland.gov/mdem/2024/12/09/7th-annual-maryland-winter-safety-week-december-9-15-2024/. If you would like to register to receive local alerts, visit the City of Laurel website at www.cityoflaurel.org/230/Stay-Informed.
