Sussex County stresses public readiness for 2007 Atlantic hurricane season

Friday, June 1, 2007: As another summer season begins in Sussex County, beaches and barbeques occupy our thoughts. But something else should be on everyone’s mind, especially today – preparing for another hurricane season.

Today marks the start of the 2007 Atlantic hurricane season, one that forecasters predict could be more active than normal. To coincide with the start of the season, the Sussex County Emergency Operations Center is reminding residents and visitors to southern Delaware that they need to prepare now.

Preparation in advance of a storm is key to limiting or preventing loss of property, but most importantly, it’s essential to preventing loss of life.

“Although last year was a relatively quiet and inactive storm season, we cannot let our guard down, especially given the predictions,” said Joseph L. Thomas, director of the Sussex County EOC. “It’s important now that while the sun is shining and the weather is nice that residents and property owners take the time to prepare. They shouldn’t be preparing when the clouds are forming and the storm is moving in.”

For the 2007 Atlantic hurricane season, scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are predicting 13 to 17 named storms. Seven to 10 of those are predicted to become hurricanes, of which three to five could become major hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher, according to NOAA.

To help make the storm season safer for everyone, here are some steps you can take to make your home and family ready for the hurricane season:

  • If you live in a flood-prone or otherwise vulnerable area, be prepared to evacuate. Plan your evacuation route now. Emergency managers will notify the public, via the media, of what areas should evacuate and when. In the event you evacuate, take a storm kit with you. Take valuable and/or important papers with you. Secure your house by locking the windows and doors. Turn off all utilities (gas, water, electric, etc.) Notify a family member or someone close to you outside the evacuation area of your destination.
  • Secure all outdoor items. Property owners also will need to secure their boats. Area residents should clear rainspouts and gutters and trim any trees that may pose a problem during high winds.
  • Have a family disaster kit. This kit should include the following items:
    • A three-day supply of water. This should include at least one gallon of water per person per day;
    • Non-perishable foods and a manual can opener;
    • A change of clothes and shoes for each person;
    • Prescription medicines;
    • A blanket or sleeping bag and pillow for each person;
    • Personal hygiene items;
    • A flashlight and extra batteries for each person;
    • Special needs items such as formula and diapers for infants and items needed for elderly or disabled family members;
    • A portable radio with extra batteries;
    • Money. During power outages ATM machines will not work;
    • Fuel. Gas pumps are also affected by power outages, so it is a good idea to have fuel in advance.
  • In the event of an approaching storm, travel during daylight hours. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO MAKE PLANS OR TO PURCHASE GASOLINE AND SUPPLIES. When a storm watch is issued, you should monitor the storm on the radio and television. An evacuation could take 24 to 36 hours prior to a storm’s onset.
  • If ordered to evacuate and seek shelter elsewhere, follow the instructions of local emergency managers on where to go and when. Authorities will announce shelter locations in advance of their opening. Make provisions for your pets, as many shelters will not accept animals.
  • If not ordered to evacuate and you decide to take shelter in your home, have your disaster kit ready. Keep your important papers with you or store them in the highest, safest place in your home, and in a waterproof container. Even if you seek shelter in place, you need to secure your home by locking the doors and windows. Turn off all utilities (gas, water, electric, etc). Monitor the storm by portable radio to keep up with the latest information. Stay indoors. Try to stay in an inside room away from doors and windows.
  • Use your phone sparingly. Make only essential calls and keep the calls brief. Report emergencies to 911. When reporting emergencies, identify yourself and your location, making sure to speak clearly and calmly. If you have a mobile telephone, make sure it is charged and ready to use at all times. But remember that cell phones might not work in your area during, and especially after, the storm.

Past storm seasons have shown that hurricanes and tropical storms can have devastating effects. In the event a hurricane storm affects our area, expect polluted water, limited communications, no electricity, overflowing or backed-up sewers, undermined foundations, beach erosion and heavy damage to homes and roadways.

Do not re-enter the area until recommended to do so by local authorities. As you re-enter the area, be aware of possible hazards such as downed trees and power lines. Be aware of debris and water on roadways. Have your identification and important legal papers ready to show officials proof of residency upon re-entering. Continue to use your emergency water supply or boil water until you are notified that the drinking water is safe. Take precautions to prevent fires.

Sussex County officials continue to plan, prepare and work with outside agencies to ready Sussex County for hurricane season, which ends Nov. 30. We can all weather the storm if we plan now, rather than wait until later.

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For more information on preparing for the hurricane season, contact Debbie Jones at the Sussex County at (302) 855-7801. You can also visit our web site to download evacuation maps and other resources. The address is sussexcountyde.gov/emergency-preparedness.