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Garrett County Government
301.334.8970 | info@garrettcounty.org

Board of Commissioners

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Phone 301.334.8970
Fax 301.334.5000
knull@garrettcounty.org
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Frederick A. Thayer III Courthouse-Administrative Building
203 South Fourth Street, Room 207
Oakland, MD 21550
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Office Hours 8:30am - 4:30pm
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Governor Martin O'Malley Toured Garrett County Today

Last Updated on Nov 1, 2012 at 3:03pm | Board of Commissioners
Governor Martin O’Malley toured Garrett County today visiting with citizens impacted by the Hurricane Sandy snow event that dumped some 3 feet of heavy wet snow on parts of Garrett County bringing down many trees and power lines.
 
First Energy is reporting as many as 15,500 Garrett County customers are without electric at this time and the County reports many secondary roads are still closed due to large trees blocking access.  Crews are working to restore power with many out of area contractors in the county working. 
 
he County Roads Department is prioritizing areas to work to open roads to get utility workers in to repair lines and remove trees from power lines.  Residents are asked to keep away from trees involved in power lines as there is no guarantee said lines are not energized.  The primary focus of County efforts is to work to have roads open by the weekend.
 
Residents are asked to check on elderly neighbors and remain in touch.  If unable to do so, please contact our County emergency center to provide information of those who may need to be checked on and crews will be dispatched.
 
Garrett County through the Maryland Department of Human Resources has established a toll free line to report non-life threatening issues.  Please contact the Community Help Line for information and assistance at 1-888-756-7836.
 
County managed shelters currently open at the following locations:
  • Southern Rescue Squad- 200 Baltimore Avenue; Mt. Lake Park;
  • Friendsville Volunteer Fire Department- Corner of Walnut Street & Park Street; Friendsville;
  • Accident Volunteer Fire Department-109 S. South Street; Accident.
Note: Additional shelters will be opened as needed. 
 
Garrett County Roads have stated that the countywide road system consists of 420 roads, of which 27 roads or roughly 7% remain impassable.
  • Oakland area roads open except blockages at White Oak Road, Frick’s Crossing;
  • Grantsville area roads are open;
  • Accident area and McHenry continue to have road closures however, County and State Highway Administration personnel are developing a strategy and priorities for open those roads.
 
Storm Safety Tips:
  • Use flashlights. Avoid using candles, they are fire hazards.
  • Turn off major appliances. The water heater and heating system breakers need to be turned off to avoid overloading your circuits when the power is restored. Unplug any voltage-sensitive equipment.
  • Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Food in a refrigerator will last 12 to 24 hours if the doors are kept closed. A full freezer can last 24 to 48 hours. Helpful Hint: You can drape a sleeping bag over your refrigerator or freezer for added insulating value in case of an extended power outage.
  • Listen to radio reports. Keep either a battery operated or battery free (hand crank) radio on hand for emergencies. During an extended outage, please listen to the local radio stations for updates and information.
  • To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, use generators, grills, and similar items outdoors only.
  • Inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes.
  • Wear protective clothing and be cautious when cleaning up to avoid injury.

Storm related information is available at www.garrettsocial.com and local radio stations.
 
Additional safety tips may be accessed from the following websites: http://mema.maryland.gov