19 Nov FCS Hosts First of Its Kind Disaster Preparedness Event
Posted at 11:20h
in Media
Tues., Nov. 19, 5-6:30pm, Freeport Community Services holds a first-of-its-kind disaster preparedness event with officials from Freeport and Cumberland.
“FREEPORT (WGME) — Winter is right around the corner and local leaders want Mainers to be prepared for emergency weather situations.
In January, Governor Janet Mills requested a major disaster declaration from the federal government for 10 Maine counties due to the powerful storms and flooding from December 2023, which cost around $90 million alone in damage.
Hundreds of thousands of people were left without power for days.
Age Friendly Freeport and Pownal Coordinator Marie O’Donnell says their goal on Tuesday is to educate the community on ways to be more prepared for winter weather emergencies and safety during shelter-in-place.
The police chief, fire chief, and Cumberland County Emergency Management agency will be there, presenting and answering questions for the public and explaining what their role is in emergencies.
O’Donnell says rural areas need extra support as well as a certain age group.
‘This trend has highlighted a significant gap in preparedness and education in our communities particularly among older adult populations who face some more unique challenges during severe weather events,’ O’Donnell said. ‘A tree falls on the road and individuals could be trapped in their homes for several days before CMP can come clear the lines. So, people in rural areas can be more significantly impacted.’
O’Donnell says they’ve already created 40 emergency kits for elderly community members with essential items needed during power outages.
The event is from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Freeport Community Center at 53 Depot St. in Freeport.”
