MEMA urges action within communities

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (WMAR) -  

With record temperatures throughout the state, Maryland officials are asking citizens to take an active role in saving lives.

"We need every citizen in Maryland to check on their neighbor,"

said Ken Mallette, Executive Director of MEMA. "This extreme heat event poses an immediate threat to the health and safety of everyone, including otherwise healthy individuals.  This is an incredibly serious situation requiring continued action. Citizen first responders represent our most direct capacity to save lives."

Across the State, Cooling Centers have been opened and the State is coordinating available transportation through its 2-1-1 phone line.  A full list of cooling centers can be found on www.abc2news.com .

Additionally, severe weather is predicted within the next 24 hours.  The National Weather Service is predicting scattered severe thunderstorms with potentially damaging winds and hail. 

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency reminds you of the following:

1.  Check on neighbors several times each day.  Individuals who are experiencing headaches, confusion, dizziness, nausea, or a rapid heartbeat should seek immediate attention.

2.  Statewide phone numbers have been established to provide all Marylanders with access to essential services including transportation to cooling centers.  The phone numbers are 211 statewide and 311 in Baltimore City and Montgomery County.

3.  Hydration is the primary way to combat the effects of heat ~ people should be consuming at least eight glasses of water daily.  This amount should be increased for those working outdoors.