Each year in the United States, thunderstorms produce 20-25 million lightning flashes that strike the ground, killing an average of 20+ people and injuring hundreds more - often in devastating and permanent ways. weather.gov

Do you need help with your mental health?

If you don't know where to start, this infographic may help guide you. go.usa.gov/xGfxz #shareNIMH

It's never too early to get your child involved in disaster preparedness! The virtual YPC Summit starts tomorrow where our members will gain valuable skills from subject matter experts at our agency. Tune in to @readygov for more updates this week!

More: fema.gov/emergency-mana…

National Night Out will take place on Tuesday, August 2 from 5 - 8 PM! The annual event is an opportunity to celebrate your community while promoting police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Register your event by Friday at bit.ly/3yVaiYW

A Flood Watch has been issued for portions of the region 4 PM-midnight. The threat for flash flooding may be accompanied by rainfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour, locally higher in spots. Additionally, some strong to severe t'storms will also be possible. #MDwx #VAwx #DCwx #WVwx

There is a marginal risk of severe weather this afternoon and evening from NWS Storm Prediction Center. Damaging winds are the primary threat, though isolated instances of flooding are possible. #DCwx #MDwx #VAwx #WVwx

As EPAC ends our role advising the County Board, we would like to thank our friend McGruff the Crime Dog® (McGruff The Crime Dog®) for his ongoing efforts to engage the public to reduce crime. We look forward to your continued efforts to Take A Bite Out Of Crime®.
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No matter what you’re experiencing, there are ways to support yourself & those around you. If you or someone you know needs help, confidential support and treatment options are available.

💛 Help yourself & share to help others: samhsa.gov/find-help

Vacations make hotels and motels a home away from home. It is just as important to be prepared and know what you would do in a hotel/motel emergency as it is in your own home. Download this safety tip sheet for your next #summervacation : nfpa.social/KFKz50JRSOm

Platelets play a critical role in the treatment of cancer & other chronic diseases, as well traumatic injuries. Every 15 seconds, someone needs platelets. But to meet this need, we need more donors to step up ASAP: rcblood.org/platelet

Friends, please NEVER leave people or pets in parked, unattended vehicles! The temperature in your car can quickly become deadly. 🥵 Always look 👀 before you lock! Learn more: bit.ly/3RqFKqd

Severe Thunderstorm Warning including Washington DC, Arlington VA and Alexandria VA until 6:15 PM EDT

🚩 Everyday tasks—such as opening email attachments from unknown sources or shopping on illegitimate websites—could put you in #cyber danger. Visit go.usa.gov/xJSmW and read our tips below to learn how to protect your systems and data from cybercriminals. #CyberRedFlags

DHS appreciates all the great work AWLA does to keep our community safe!

Showers and thunderstorms are likely this afternoon as a cold front passes through this afternoon. Isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds, large hail and heavy rainfall will be possible.

There is hope. The Lifeline works — it helps thousands of people overcome crisis situations every day.

📅 Starting July 16 to reach the Lifeline, call or text 988. Learn more about this new dialing code: fal.cn/3q8sc

Suicide is complicated and tragic, but it is often preventable. Knowing the warning signs for suicide and how to get help can help save lives. fal.cn/3q8Ct #shareNIMH

Floods can happen within a few minutes or hours of heavy rainfall.

Pay attention to local authorities and officials!

In the case of a flood, move to higher ground or find shelter. Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.

#FloodSafety 👉 ready.gov/floods

BLOOD DONATION SHORTFALL: The Red Cross collected about 12% less blood donations than needed in June. When less people step up to give, the blood supply shrinks – that could mean blood products aren’t ready for hospitals in emergencies. Sign up & give now: rcblood.org/appt

Summer is an excellent time to take a family vacation, and home-sharing makes it even easier. Safety Tip: Once you arrive at your rental, check for fire safety, child safety, and pool safety. Download our tip sheet for more: nfpa.social/cPq150JQIxn #familyvacation #summersafety