Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Coordinates Preparedness Efforts in Advance of Winter Storm

December 4, 2020

Contact:

Vanessa Corson
207-592-6201

AUGUSTA, MAINE -MEMA staff, partner agencies, and utility companies are coordinating preparedness efforts in advance of the first major snowfall of the season. Wet snow is expected along the coastline with up to 2.5 inches of rain in Washington and Hancock Counties. There is a potential of 10 to 15 inches of snow from Eagle Lake to Oxbow and Baxter State Park through central Piscataquis County. The storm will roll into southern Maine on Saturday morning for a duration of 18 to 24 hours as it makes its way north in the afternoon with wind gusts up to 30 mph.

MEMA hosted a conference call Friday afternoon to discuss concerns about travel, and possible power outages. MEMA has a staffing plan in place and is prepared to add additional staff if needed as the event progresses. The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) is currently activated due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We urge citizens to travel only if necessary during the worst of the storm," said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. "With temperatures hovering around freezing, road conditions are expected to be extremely slick."

Citizens are encouraged to stay tuned to alerts and warnings through media or by downloading the free FEMA app on their smart phone, which provides targeted preparedness information, alerts, and warnings for specific areas. Those using alternate heat and power sources are reminded to follow the manufacturer's guidelines. Never run a generator in an enclosed area and be sure it is properly installed and at least 15 feet away from the home in a well-ventilated area.

Citizens should also plan for the possibility that they may have to shelter in place at home and should have the following essential items:

• Three-day supply of nonperishable food that does not require cooking

• Three-day supply of water (one gallon of water per person, per day)

• Portable, battery powered radio with extra batteries

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• First aid kit

• Cash (enough for at least three-days' worth of expenses)

• Telephone that works without electricity

• A safe way to heat food and water such as a camp stove, etc.

• Sleeping bags, extra blankets, and warm clothing

• Three-day supply of medication (never let your supply run below three days' worth)

• Items for infants: formula, diapers, etc.

• Food and water for pets

If you must travel during the storm, please consider the following:

• Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area such as a garage to avoid Carbon Monoxide poisoning

• Make sure tires are properly inflated and in good condition

• Check windshield wiper fluid

• Ensure the vehicle is clear of all ice and snow

• Never mix radial tires with other types of tires

• Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid the gas line freezing up or running out of gas and becoming stranded

• Bring a fully charged cell phone; program roadside assistance numbers in your contacts

• If you become stranded in your vehicle, stay with the vehicle and tie a brightly-colored cloth to the antenna or use other distress signals

• Run the engine and heater just long enough to remove chill to conserve gas

Remember to update theemergency kitsin your vehicles in case you become stranded and be sure to let someone know where you will be traveling and when you expect to arrive at your destination.

For additional preparedness and safety information, please visit MainePrepares.com, or visit MEMA on Facebook or Twitter. Information on shelters and warming centers is also available by calling 2-1-1 or contacting your local town office, fire or police department.