Georgetown, Del. (4 p.m. Wed., Sept. 2, 2026): September is National Preparedness Month, and Sussex County Emergency Management reminds the public that, even as calendars and wardrobes change with the seasons, the need to be prepared for any disaster at any time remains year-round.

This month, Emergency Management is again partnering with County libraries to host information sessions and showcase sample disaster kits, which the public can use as a model to replicate in their homes, businesses, schools. The kits include a variety of items, including a watertight container, bottled water, first aid kit, flashlight and batteries, portable weather radio, non-perishable food, can opener, medication bottles, and waterproof document sleeve, among other necessities.

The kits are on display at the Greenwood, Milton, and South Coastal (Bethany Beach) libraries, as well as on the Emergency Management division’s website. Meantime, three ‘Are you Ready?’ sessions will be held at each library. They are:

• 1 p.m. Tues, Sept. 9, Greenwood Library, 100 Mill St., Greenwood
• 3 p.m. Thu., Sept. 17, Milton Library, 121 Union St., Milton
• 3 p.m. Wed., Sept. 23, South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Ave., Bethany Beach

“Everyone needs to evaluate their risk and ask themselves important questions, such as, ‘Am I in an evacuation zone?’ They need to think about everyone in the home, including pets, how everyone will communicate in a crisis,” Emergency Manager Timothy Cooper said. “All of these are important little steps to take now so they don’t become bigger issues in a crisis.”

County Librarian Rachel Lynch said libraries are vital information hubs for the community. “This is critical information that every citizen should have, and we are proud to work with Emergency Management in delivering that,” Ms. Lynch said.

For more information on making a kit and taking other steps to prepare for hazards, visit https://sussexcountyde.gov/emergency-preparedness.

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