I want to take a moment to address everyone regarding the impending snow storm this weekend. As it stands right now, it looks like the Maryland area is in for a direct hit.

Below is a link to the latest weather.com report. It indicates the potential for snow that will be measurable in feet.  If this is the case, there are a few safety tips that I would like to point out, as well as some websites to view for additional information.  Please remember that these types of storms are dangerous, and have the potential to be tragic….so please stay vigilant.  Aside from my job as a Community Association Manager for Tidewater Property Management, I am a Firefighter/Medic with the fire department in Baltimore County. Although most likely I will be deployed, I will keep the Tidewater vendors and Boards updated with information as it becomes available.  Please note, I will be in constant communication with our vendors responsible for snow removal. If this turns out to be a big storm, we respectively ask our clients to be patient because it is going to take some time to clear. Rest assured that our Tidewater crews will be working around the clock to make sure sidewalks and roadways are clear. Also note that once the government declares a state of emergency, only emergency vehicles, State Highway, and essential personnel will be allowed on Maryland Roadways.

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm

• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
•  If the power goes out, close off unused rooms to consolidate and retain heat.  Wear layered clothing and use blankets or sleeping bags to stay warm. Bring pets inside.

Put Together a Supply Kit

• Water—at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day
• Food—at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered Radio
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc.)
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
• Tools/supplies for securing your home
• Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery
• Warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and extra blankets and warm clothing for all household members
• Ample alternate heating methods such as fireplaces or wood- or coal-burning stoves

NEVER use generators, outdoor heating or cooking equipment, such as a grill, camp stove, or a gasoline or propane heater, indoors.

NEVER heat a home with a stove.

If driving is absolutely necessary, keep disaster supplies in your vehicle, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped, and use extra precaution on the roads.

If you do not have adequate supplies to stay warm in your home and you can get there safely, you may want to go to a shelter.

For additional information, please visit the following websites:

http://www.weather.com/storms/winter/news/snow-ohio-valley-middle-atlantic-northeast

www.ready.gov/prepare