Evacuation, as a protective action,
is more common than you think. Hundreds of times each year,
transportation or industrial accidents
release harmful
chemicals that force nearby residents to leave their homes.
Fires and floods force people from their homes even more
often, and almost every year residents along some areas of
the Gulf and Atlantic coasts must evacuate for approaching
hurricanes. Evacuation planning has been ongoing for many
years across the country, in Maryland, and in St. Mary’s
County.
If an evacuation is called for in your
neighborhood:
Put your
Family Disaster Plan into effect.
Listen to a
battery-operated radio for official instructions. You should
check for emergency information from St Mary’s County
Government through radio, television, and websites.
Before leaving your home, lock the doors and windows. If
there is time, unplug appliances, turn off natural gas,
propane, water,
electricity, and leave a note stating
where you can be located.
Always follow specific
evacuation routes. DO NOT take short cuts. They may be
blocked.
Before returning home:
Continue to listen to the radio for information and
instructions. DO NOT return home until county officials say
it is safe.
Check for damage in your home.
Immediately notify your gas company if you smell or locate a
leak.
Notify
SMECO of downed power lines.
Follow health department instructions on using food items
after a disaster.
If appliances are wet, turn off
the main electrical power switch.
After the
emergency has passed, call family and friends to let them
know you are safe.
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