MEMA: Expect snow to affect your travel plans this afternoon and evening

REISTERSTOWN, Md. - The Maryland Emergency Management Agency is asking all Marylanders to prepare now for the expected snow which could affect their commute home from work or other travel plans.

In a statement from MEMA, Executive Director Richard Muth urged people to prepare ahead of time. "Similar past weather events have shown us how important it is to be prepared for winter storms. This is especially true if the storm hits during times of heavy traffic."

MEMA suggests people have plenty of gas in the vehicle's tank before traveling in bad weather, also to keep a winter supply kit in their vehicles that includes blankets, bottled water, snacks, a small snow shovel and kitty litter or sand (to help with tire traction). They also suggest an auto safety kit that includes jumper cables, flares or reflective devices, and a small first aid kit.

Of course, MEMA suggests people avoid traveling during times of heavy snow because conditions could be treacherous and to allow snow removal crews to do their jobs as efficiently as possible. If you are at work, ask your employer if you may stay at work until conditions improve or perhaps plan on having dinner at a place near your job.

From the MEMA statement:

For more information on winter preparedness, please visit www.mema.state.md.us , click on Be Prepared and then the link for Winter Storms. Other information is available from the Federal Emergency Management Agency at www.ready.gov .Maryland now features FREE 511 traveler information!  Call 511 or 1-855-GOMD511 or visit: www.md511.org   for current travel information. Sign up to personalize travel route information through MY511 on the website. Remember to use 511 safely - Maryland law restricts hand-held mobile phone use and texting while driving .

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