Print
Share page with AddThis

Emergency Preparedness

evacuation route

The Town of North Beach (the town) encourages all residents to review emergency procedures and create family plans as a way to proactively prepare in case of major coastal storms, hurricanes, localized flooding, etc. The town follows procedures and recommendations from the Calvert County Department of Public Safety. It is recommended that residents be prepared by becoming familiar with and utilizing online emergency preparedness resources offered through the county’s website and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency website.

In the event of a major coastal storm, consider the following actions and be prepared in case these potentially dangerous storms are threatening:

Prepare for High Winds

  • If necessary, protect all windows with shutters or 5/8-inch plywood panels.
  • Reinforce garage doors.
  • Designate an interior room with no windows or external doors as a “safe room.”
  • Assess your landscaping and trees to ensure they do not become a wind hazard.

Prepare for Flooding

  • Determine the elevation of your property to learn your vulnerability to flooding.
  • Evaluate your insurance coverage.
  • In flood-prone areas, keep materials on hand such as sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, plastic garbage bags, lumber, shovels, work boots and gloves.
  • Be aware of areas known to flood so your evacuation routes are not cut off.

If Storms Approach

  • Most mobile/manufactured homes are not built to withstand hurricane-force winds. Residents of these homes should relocate to safer structures if an evacuation order is issued.
  • Secure lawn furniture and other outside objects that could become projectiles in high winds.
  • Listen carefully for safety instructions from local officials. Monitor a NOAA weather radio.

During Storms

  • Stay inside and away from windows, skylights and doors.
  • If the power is out, listen to a battery-powered radio for storm updates.
  • Have flashlights/batteries handy and avoid open flames and candles.
  • If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce damage when power is restored.

After Storms

  • Stay away from downed or dangling power lines.
  • Beware of weakened tree limbs.
  • Open windows and doors to ventilate your house.
  • To keep lines open, use your phone only in emergencies.
  • Do not drive into water of unknown depth.
  • Restrict children from playing in flooded areas.
  • Do not use fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters.
  • Pump out wells and have the water tested before drinking.

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