Wicomico County Prepares For Hurricane Sandy - WMDT 47 News - Delmarva's Choice

Wicomico County Prepares For Hurricane Sandy

WICOMICO Co., Md. - Wicomico County Executive Rick Pollitt and the Department of Emergency Services are urging citizens to make the necessary preparations for Hurricane Sandy. A storm surge associated with the passing of the storm could cause flooding in low lying areas and areas along the Wicomico and Nanticoke Rivers.

"We've been very fortunate in recent years to have the potential for major damage from storms occur but not happen. I'm urging citizens -- do not become complacent," County Executive Rick Pollitt commented, "Heed the warnings and take this storm seriously."

Emergency Preparedness Information:

• Citizens are encouraged to monitor local media and/or weather radio
• Residents living in flood prone areas should be extra vigilant in monitoring their surroundings
• Secure all outside items/objects due to the expected winds
• Be prepared for possible power outages associated with the storm

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

• Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Assemble an animal emergency supply kit (including pet food and extra water) for your pets and develop a pet care buddy system

Citizens can obtain additional information on hurricane preparedness as well as other emergency preparedness topics by utilizing the Department of Emergency Services' web site at www.wicomicocounty.org/es in the section entitled Emergency Preparedness Topics.

In preparation for the storm, the Department of Public Works has put in place the following measures:

• Lowering pond levels at county controlled dams, i.e. Leonard Mill, Coulbourne Mill and Parker Pond
• Inspecting equipment and tools, completing vehicle repairs, and checking safety gear
• Filling fuel storage tanks and fleet
• Removing debris from inlets and outfalls
• Reviewing Debris Management Plan, i.e. verifying contact information, confirming availability of staff and gathering EOC kit
• Inspecting DPW facilities and communication devices
• Preparing active construction sites for excessive rainfall 
• Planning to close ferries and transfer stations, if necessary