Sussex County reminds public to always be prepared

Georgetown, Del. (Mon., Dec. 2, 2024): The calendar may have changed from one season to the next, but being prepared for whatever Mother Nature serves up weatherwise is surely a year-round endeavor.

Sussex County Emergency Management reminds the public that while attention shifts from the tropical season to the winter months ahead, the need to be prepared remains the same. As the Atlantic hurricane season officially ended Nov. 30, the winter season that often brings coastal storms - known colloquially as nor'easters - ramps up in the cooler fall months and runs until early spring. During this change in seasons, residents and property owners are encouraged to check supplies, monitor weather conditions, and take appropriate action if directed this winter season.

"Thankfully, this was a quiet tropical season, and the winter ahead looks like it could be mild," Sussex County Emergency Manager/Deputy Director of Public Safety Timothy R. Cooper said. "However, with each season comes a large degree of uncertainty, so it requires preparation no matter the forecast. Preparedness is the best insurance policy to ensure your family and property's readiness. We ask every family to make a plan, create a disaster kit, and stay informed." Visit www.preparede.org for more information on preparing and winterizing your disaster kit.

Over the years, Sussex County has experienced its fair share of harsh winters, including the "polar vortex" that brought extreme cold to the region in early 2014, as well as back-to-back blizzards in 2009 and 2010 that closed schools, stranded motorists, scoured beaches, and knocked out power across the county.

Whatever unfolds this season, to ensure you are prepared for winter weather, Sussex County Emergency Management suggests the following preventive actions:

Before the Storm

• Spread an ice melting agent on walkways and driveways to keep surfaces free of ice; use sand to improve traction;
• Have snow shovels and other equipment handy;
• Winterize your vehicle:
• Ensure antifreeze levels are sufficient to avoid freezing;
• Ensure the heater and defroster work properly;
• Check lights and flashing hazard lights for serviceability;
• Pack a winterization kit that includes an ice scraper, de-icer for door locks, blankets, and sand or kitty litter to provide grip if your vehicle becomes stranded;
• Create a Safety Profile for your family with the County's free Smart911.com service to provide potentially life-saving information in advance;
• Consider joining a local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) group or learning CPR/first aid. Find more information about CERT at www.sussexcountyde/community-emergency-response-team.

During the Storm

• Listen to television, radio, or NOAA Weather Radio for weather reports and emergency information. Also, visit the Sussex County Emergency Management website and its social media channels, including Facebook at www.facebook.com/SussexCountyEmergencyManagement and X (formerly Twitter) at www.x.com/SussexCtyDE_EM for up-to-date information;
• Eat regularly and drink ample fluids; avoid caffeine and alcohol;
• Conserve fuel and power, if necessary, by keeping your residence cooler than normal. Temporarily close off heat to some rooms;
• Limit unnecessary travel and heed all advisories and warnings.

Dress for the Weather

• Wear layers of loose-fitting, thin, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellant;
• Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves, as well as a hat;
• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

For more winter weather information and helpful tips, please visit the Sussex County website at www.sussexcountyde.gov/emergency-preparedness and click on the 'Other Hazards' link on the left to download a useful guide about preparing for winter storms and other types of hazardous events.

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