Time is now to prepare for winter weather...

Sussex County EOC recommends residents create readiness plan

Seasons may change, but the need to be prepared for any season remains the same.

The Sussex County Emergency Operations Center (Sussex County EOC) reminds the public that hazard preparation is a year-round necessity, whether it’s ahead of hurricane season – 2020 was the most active season ever recorded – or the nor’easter season that typically runs from now to mid-March.

As the calendar turns to the colder months, residents and property owners are encouraged to check supplies, monitor weather conditions, and take appropriate action as directed this winter season.

“This year is certainly one for the record books on many levels, whether it’s the ongoing pandemic or the unprecedented hurricane season of 27 named systems, three of which affected us here in Sussex County – Fay, Isaias, and Zeta,” said Sussex County Emergency Operations Center Director Joe Thomas. “I know everyone is ready for a break, but we cannot take a break from readiness, no matter the season. Winter storms, particularly nor’easters, bring us some of our most intense weather each year. So we urge the public to take stock of their supplies and readiness plans now in case the winter months ahead are as challenging as the rest of 2020 has been for all of us.”

Over the years, Sussex County has experienced its fair share of harsh winter seasons, 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.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) seasonal outlook for this winter predicts better-than-average chances for warmer temperatures and equal chances for precipitation in Sussex County.

Whatever unfolds this season, the Sussex County EOC suggests the following prudent 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 vehicles: Ensure antifreeze levels are sufficient to avoid freezing; confirm that 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 household with the county’s free Smart911.com service to provide potentially life-saving information in advance of problems.

During the storm

• Listen to television, radio or NOAA Weather Radio for weather reports and emergency information

• Visit the Sussex County EOC website and its social media channels, including Facebook at facebook.com/SussexCountyEOC and Twitter at twitter.com/SussexCtyDE_EOC.

• 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; and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from cold air.

For more winter weather information and tips, go to 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.