Harford County Agencies Address Community Needs During Recent Heat Wave

From Harford County Government:

(Bel Air, MD) – – Multiple agencies and departments of county government came to the aid of citizens during the heat-wave which hung over Harford County for nearly a week. Among the agencies and departments involved were the Harford County Division of Emergency Operations, the Department of Community Services, the Office of the County Executive, the Harford County Health Department, the Harford County Public Library as well as the Bel Air and Abingdon Volunteer Fire Companies.

“When faced with the challenges of severe weather, it is comforting to know that multiple agencies can come together to work for the common good of our citizens,” remarked County Executive David R. Craig. “Through the tireless efforts and coordination of the Division of Emergency Operations, Harford County Government stepped in to help those in need as well as check on our elderly population during the oppressive heat-wave,” Craig stated.

During an eight-day period, Harford County Government made available “Cooling Centers” to assist those seeking temporary relief from the sweltering heat and humidity. The “Cooling Centers” included all branches of the Harford County Public Library and both the Bel Air and Abingdon Volunteer Fire Companies the past two Sundays.

In late June during the first on-set of high temperatures and heat indices, three community centers, Havre de Grace, Bel Air and Fallston served as “Cooling Centers” as well.

The Department of Community Services, Office on Aging staff contacted 75 at-risk elderly to check on their status. Additionally, 35 frail elderly individuals received home-visits by staff members to check on their well-being.

The Alliance Homeless Outreach team conducted daily outreach efforts to the homeless at multiple locations throughout Harford County. Approximately 25 people were contacted by the outreach team during the week. Also a nurse conducted daily hydration checks on individuals to ensure they were properly hydrated. As a result of these efforts, one individual was transported to an area hospital for suffering from possible heat stroke.

The Disaster Assistance Coordinator (DAC) helped screen 15 calls or referrals through the Harford County 911 Center seeking assistance. One woman with serious health issues and her daughter and a woman with eight children, whose home was without power, were linked to housing and resources for food in the community.

A team from the Harford County Emergency Management staff, joined by Director of Administration Mary Chance, went door-to-door at various locations throughout the county to check on the well-being of those without power. The team contacted approximately 100 citizens and provided information regarding Connect CTY so they could stay informed of serious storm and weather events, as well as recovery updates.

The Harford County Division of Emergency Operations dispatched approximately 20 calls for service to local fire and EMS providers to those suffering from heat-related symptoms.

The Harford County Health Department made contact with nursing homes to verify they had electricity and their residents were doing well. The Health Department also helped disseminate “Heat Awareness” information electronically to the public.

“True success comes from team work, and we had a great team of professionals who worked throughout the week to support those in need,” County Executive Craig stated. “Although many turned to county government seeking assistance in getting their power restored, we have little control over such matters, but are very concerned with public safety and the overall well-being of our citizens,” Craig remarked.