Maryland Kicks Off Eighth Annual Winter Safety Week to Bolster Public Preparedness

Maryland is observing its eighth annual Winter Safety Week, an initiative dedicated to enhancing public awareness and preparedness for winter weather hazards. Governor Wes Moore has officially proclaimed December 8 through 14, 2025, as Maryland Winter Safety Week, a period marked by collaborative efforts between the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), the National Weather Service (NWS), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and various state and local agencies. The campaign aims to inform residents about potential dangers and provide actionable steps to ensure safety throughout the colder months.

During this week, MDEM and its partner organizations will disseminate crucial safety information and preparedness tips through various channels, with a particular focus on MDEM’s social media platforms. Key areas of emphasis include the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to cold, which can exacerbate existing medical conditions and pose a greater threat to vulnerable populations such as seniors and individuals with functional needs. The campaign will also highlight the dangers of indoor heating and carbon monoxide poisoning, urging residents to use generators, gas stoves, and heating systems safely, and to ensure proper ventilation.

The initiative will also address home fire safety, encouraging the safe use of space heaters, cooking appliances, and holiday decorations, alongside regular testing of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. The use of flameless LED candles is promoted as a safer alternative to open flames during the holiday season. Furthermore, drivers will receive reminders about the hazards of winter travel, emphasizing the importance of vehicle preparation and carrying an emergency kit that includes essential supplies.

Residents are encouraged to take practical steps to prepare for severe winter weather. These steps include assembling a winter emergency kit for vehicles, equipped with items such as first aid supplies, medications, warm clothing, blankets, water, a flashlight, a portable radio, batteries, and non-perishable snacks. For home safety, having ice melt, snow shovels, and sand readily available is advised to maintain safe walkways. It is also recommended to have a three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, and essential medications to ensure self-sufficiency if travel becomes impossible due to severe cold.

To ensure residents can stay warm during extreme cold, having extra blankets, dressing in layers, and identifying potential warming centers or friends and family who can offer shelter in case of power outages are recommended. Staying connected and informed is also a critical component of preparedness. Residents are urged to sign up for local county and municipal emergency notification systems for both their homes and workplaces, ensuring they have multiple methods of receiving alerts.

For those seeking assistance with health and human services, 211-Maryland remains a vital resource, offering access to over 7,500 services and operating in more than 150 languages. Comprehensive information on winter preparedness can be found on the MDEM website and its various social media channels, including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and Bluesky.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Department of Emergency Management.

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