Winter weather requires proper preparation

1700 Hours, Monday, Jan. 10, 2011: With one major snowstorm already in the books for Sussex County this season, and the possibility of more on the way – it is only January, after all – residents and property owners should keep a few supplies on hand and tips in mind to be ready for whatever winter weather may come this way.

The Sussex County Emergency Operations Center reminds the public just as preparations are a must ahead of each hurricane season, the routine should be much the same ahead of the nor’easter and winter storm season that spans October to March.

“People often assume that hurricanes pose the greatest threat to us here in Delaware because we’re a coastal state,” said EOC Director Joseph L. Thomas. “While tropical weather does present a significant risk, the fact of the matter is nor’easters and other coastal storms have historically caused more damage and been among our most significant weather events.

“We want residents to keep that in mind as we plow through what could be another busy winter season,” Mr. Thomas added. “The key to getting through any kind of extreme weather is preparation – having the necessary supplies, and most importantly, having a plan.”

Sussex County and Delaware saw unprecedented weather in 2009-2010, with repeated coastal storms and back-to-back blizzards that scoured beaches, flooded fields and dumped snow measured in feet, not inches. So far for the 2010-2011 winter season, one major storm has brought nearly a foot of snow to Sussex County – the so-called Boxing Day Blizzard on Dec. 26 – and more is in the forecast in the days and weeks ahead.

To ensure you are prepared for winter weather, the Sussex County EOC suggests the following preventive actions:

Before the Storm

  • Spread rock salt on walkways and driveways to melt ice and 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 traction if your vehicle becomes stranded.

During the Storm

  • Listen to television, radio, or NOAA Weather Radio for weather reports and emergency information. Also, visit the Sussex County EOC Web site and its Twitter feeds, twitter.com/SussexCtyDE_EOC, 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 Web site at sussexcountyde.gov/emergency-preparedness.

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