What is a State of Emergency?
The Governor declares a State of Emergency during significant weather events and natural disasters. The emergency declaration is a tool used by the government officials who are managing the emergency. It allows State agencies to quickly respond to needs of citizens, reassign personnel, and deploy vehicles and equipment to respond to the incident. A State of Emergency allows the government to act more quickly than it can during non-emergency times.

At times, travel restrictions are part of a State of Emergency. This is typically done to allow snowplows to clear the roads. At other times government offices may be closed. A State of Emergency permits government officials to recommend specific actions that citizens should take to insure the safety of their families and homes during the emergency. Each emergency is different, and different factors will impact the decisions made by State officials in response to the incident.

Show All Answers

1. What should I do to be prepared in case of an emergency?
2. Where can I find information on creating a personal or business emergency response plan?
3. Why is planning so important?
4. If there is an emergency at work, what should I do to be prepared there?
5. I have a disability and live alone. What should I do to be prepared in case of emergency?
6. What does "shelter in place" mean?
7. How can I obtain information in an emergency?
8. Where can I find information on closings and delays?
9. How does the County prepare for an emergency?
10. What will Frederick County do for me in an emergency?
11. What is a State of Emergency?
12. What is the Snow Emergency Plan?
13. What is the difference between a weather watch and warning?
14. What if the County has to be evacuated? What will the County do for me?
15. Does Frederick County have shelters if we have to evacuate or relocate?
16. I have a disability and do not drive. How will I evacuate if I am told to evacuate? Will the County provide transportation for me?
17. I have a home daycare and am required to list two evacuation sites. What do I use?