County Will Hold Community Forum for Emergency Preparedness
Annapolis (June 9, 2008) - Anne Arundel County Executive John R. Leopold cordially invites the public to attend the County’s 3rd Annual Community Disaster Preparedness meeting on Wednesday, June 11th, from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m., in Pascal Auditorium at Anne Arundel County Community College’s Arnold campus. "Our County’s geographical location and design puts many residents at risk of isolation from public safety services and basic necessities during extreme weather-related events. The information provided at this forum will prove invaluable in helping residents prepare for such circumstances," said County Executive John R. Leopold. "This meeting could literally save lives. I urge residents to take advantage of it and to encourage family, friends, and neighbors to attend," he added. Hurricane season officially began on June 1st with predictions that 2008 will be more active than normal. This year’s forum will specifically address communication procedures during hurricanes and will advise communities to design their own plan to maintain communication with the media and neighbors. Information needed to proactively prepare for various natural and manmade disasters will also be provided through guest speakers. Chris Strong, from the National Weather Service, and Captain Thomas Wilson, Director of the Office of Emergency Management, will join communication experts from Anne Arundel County and the City of Annapolis, as well as weather experts from WMAR Channel 2 and WNAV radio to discuss disaster preparation and communication techniques. A question and answer session will follow the presentations. For more information on the Community Disaster Preparedness Forum, contact Cathy Welker at the Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management, at (410) 222-0600. Individuals who need special accommodations must communicate with the contact person at least 7 working days prior to the meeting at the appropriate number, by e-mail, or through the Maryland Relay Service at 7-1-1. All materials are available in an alternative format upon request. |
