On Alert: Police Double Up After Killings | Patch PM

Stories to talk about tonight:

Baltimore Police Double Up on Patrols After Baton Rouge Shootings

The fatal ambush of three officers Sunday in Baton Rouge, La., has prompted changes in the Baltimore Police Department. Baltimore Police Commissioner Kevin Davis announced Monday that officers would not be permitted to respond solo to calls for service.

"Effective immediately, officers are required to patrol together as we double up patrol post coverage," Davis said in a statement Monday morning. "While we are not doubling up in cars, we are requiring two cars to respond to all calls for service." >>> Read more.

Severe Thunderstorms Possible in Maryland on Monday

A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect until 8 p.m. on Monday, July 18, for most of Maryland.

A severe thunderstorm by definition is a thunderstorm that produces hail that is 1 inch or larger in diameter and/or winds of at least 58 miles an hour. During the watch, people should be prepared to move a place of safety if threatening weather approaches. >>> Read more.

Gov. Larry Hogan Skips GOP Convention for Crab Feast

• Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan will attend crab feast and clam bake instead of GOP convention, preserving his re-election chances, expert says.

'Open Carry' Laws Under Scrutiny After Dallas, Baton Rouge Police Killings

• In Dallas, people toting rifles to express 2nd Amendment rights added chaos, confusion to scene; after Baton Rouge, law's perils showcased.

Bed Sheets, Desk Lamp, Battery Phone Case, 'Insanity' DVDs and More: Today's Best Deals

• See all the best deals we've sniffed out today.

Patch PM shares a few of the day’s must-read items from our Maryland network. The Patch community platform covers communities across the state.