After last year’s pre-Halloween trick from mother nature, you would think the Frederick area would be due for a treat this year.  Unfortunately, mother nature has another trick up her sleeve this year by the name of Hurricane Sandy, and the fast approaching storm has the potential cause for power outages in the area. Todd Meyers, with Potomac Edison says the company is already reaching out to some of the mid-western utilities. “ If we have a whole lot of outages, we will be looking at casting a wide net to our mutual assistance partners, likely, because it will be difficult to reach out to a BG&E or a PEPCO because they will be affected by the same storm,” said Meyers.   “We are preparing for large scale power outages, flooding and other damage from this storm.  So, the way that we know that your power is out is by you calling us.  Don’t assume that your neighbor is doing it.  Just call 1-888-544-4877.  You can use that same line to call in for downed power lines,” he continued. 

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding residents to use flashlights during power outages instead of candles and to keep plenty of fresh batteries on hand at all times. 

Officials with the Frederick County Division of Emergency Management, and the American Red Cross are urging residents to have a kit with a three day supply of non-perishable foods and water, prescription medications and copies of important documents.

Specific steps can be taken to prepare for a hurricane or tropical storm:
 
If a WATCH is issued:
· Listen to weather updates.
· Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, hanging plants, bicycles, toys and garden tools.  Anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
· Close all windows and doors.
· Cover windows with storm shutters or pre-cut plywood.
· Fill vehicle gas tanks.