This blog post summarizes Baltimore’s updated winter weather preparedness plan unveiled by city officials. It highlights operational readiness, resident responsibilities, and critical safety reminders for the months ahead.
Drawing on three decades of experience in public safety and emergency management, I explain what the plan means for residents. I share the key numbers to know and practical steps to reduce risk from cold, snow, frozen pipes, and heating-related fires.
Baltimore’s winter readiness at a glance
The city has bolstered its operational posture to handle snow and extreme cold even as NOAA predicts a warmer-than-average season nationally. Officials emphasized that preparation is essential because local conditions can still produce disruptive winter events.
What the city has in place
Baltimore has staged more than 300 personnel and 600 pieces of equipment to support snow removal and emergency response operations. The city also reports a stockpile of 15,000 tons of salt.
Parking restrictions may be enforced during snow responses. Drivers are requested to stay off the roads during active plowing to allow crews to work efficiently.
Practical steps for homeowners and renters
Officials urged residents to take straightforward preparedness actions that greatly reduce household risk during winter storms and cold snaps. These measures protect property and assist city crews in keeping infrastructure operational.
Emergency kit and neighbor checks
Assemble an emergency kit with essentials and check on elderly or medically vulnerable neighbors during cold weather. Below are recommended items to include in a basic winter emergency kit:
Remember to tailor kits to individual needs—babies, seniors, and pets require specific supplies.
Protecting your home from cold-related damage
City Public Works guidance focuses on preventing frozen pipes and basement flooding, two common and costly outcomes of prolonged cold. Small actions before the cold arrives can save thousands of dollars in repairs.
Home maintenance checklist
Disconnect outdoor hoses and shut off exterior water lines to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Inspect and test sump pumps before temperatures dip.
Consider a battery backup for pumps and critical systems if you are in a flood-prone area.
Fire safety and Code Blue protections
Fire Chief James Wallace stressed the heightened risk from heating equipment, candles, and seasonal decorations. Roughly half of all home heating fires occur in December through February.
Baltimore’s Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert Season begins November 15 to protect vulnerable populations when wind chills fall below 13°F.
Reduce heating-related risks
Follow manufacturer guidance for space heaters. Keep combustibles away from heat sources, and never leave candles unattended.
If you use portable heaters, ensure clear space on all sides. Use units with tip-over and overheat protection.
Last winter Maryland recorded 67 cold-related deaths, including 21 in Baltimore City. Most of these deaths were among adults aged 45 and older.
Here is the source article for this story: Baltimore transportation officials announce winter weather preparedness plans