Coronavirus cases and hospitalizations remain extremely low in Montgomery County, Maryland, but with a more infectious strain of the virus driving rising case numbers in Europe, officials are making plans to make sure “we’re ready for a surge.”

Speaking during an online briefing with reporters, Assistant Chief Administrator Earl Stoddard said vaccinations — including increasing a lagging booster rate — and continuing to provide free COVID-19 test kits are key parts of the prep work.

Free rapid COVID-19 tests and N95 masks are available at county libraries. Earlier this month, the county also rolled out drop-off PCR tests at sites across the county, including recreation centers.

In addition, the county continues to hold vaccination clinics and is already making plans to expand those operations if and when the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention approves boosters for young children or if a fourth booster dose is approved for adults.