Now is the time to prepare for winter weather

Sussex County EOC recommends residents create readiness plan

One weather season ends and another begins, but the need for preparation is constant, no matter the date on the calendar.

The Sussex County Emergency Operations Center reminds the public that hazard preparation is a year-round necessity, whether it’s ahead of hurricane season, which officially ended Nov. 30, or the nor’easter season that typically runs from now to mid-March. As the colder winds blow, residents and property owners are encouraged to check supplies, monitor weather conditions and take appropriate action if directed this winter.

“Thankfully, this was a quiet tropical season, and the winter ahead looks like it could be mild,” said Timothy R. Cooper, Sussex County emergency manager and deputy director of public safety. “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  or more information on preparing and winterizing a disaster kit.

Over the years, Sussex County has experienced its fair share of harsh winter seasons, including the polar vortex that brought extreme cold 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 everyone is prepared for winter weather, the Sussex County EOC 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 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 the vehicle becomes stranded

• Create a safety profile for the household with the county’s free http://www.Smart911.com service to provide potentially lifesaving information in advance of problems.

• Consider joining a local community emergency response team group or learning CPR/first aid. Find more information about CERT at sussexcountyde/community-emergency-response-team.

During the storm

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

• Visit the Sussex County Emergency Operations Center website and its social media channels, including Facebook and X (formerly Twitter)

• Eat regularly and drink ample fluids; avoid caffeine and alcohol

• Conserve fuel and power, if necessary, by keeping the residence cooler than normal, and 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 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.