Pages

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Thursday, October 27, 2011

ENJOY FAMILY FUN AT GLASGOW REGIONAL PARK COMMUNITY DAY

Bring the family, enjoy the fresh fall air and have fun at the First Annual Glasgow Regional Park Community Day. The event takes place this Saturday, October 29, from 10 am to 4 pm at the park located at Route 40 and Route 896 in Glasgow.


Come see Emergency Services demonstrations and entertainment from local venues. Enjoy the excitement of the Children’s Costume Parade and “Once Upon a Trail,” a children’s storybook event. Feel fit after taking part in the 5K Run/Walk.

Other highlights include health and wellness screenings, pet services, a community yard sale, contests, raffles and giveaways. Net proceeds from the event will benefit Glasgow Regional Park. For more information contact Valerie George at (302) 395-8351.
 Glasgow Regional Park is located at Route 40 & 896

Thursday, September 29, 2011

CERT Class in October!

This program is a FREE 2 day class which educates people about disaster preparedness, the hazards that may impact their area, and trains them in basic disaster response skills. Subjects such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, disaster medical operations, and American Heart Association CPR/AED certification are provided through classroom and exercise instruction.

The next 2 DAY CLASS will be held:

Friday October 7th

4:30 pm - 9 pm
and

Saturday October 8th

8 am - 5 pm
both days.

(Note: Dinner will be provided on Friday night and breakfast and lunch will be provided on Saturday)

CERT is…

 Ordinary citizens

 Neighbor helping neighbor

 Community-based

 Safety focused

 basic life saving skills

 preventing further property loss

How Can You Help in a Disaster?

To sign up for this training, or to be put on the contact list for

future trainings, please email: citizencorps@nccde.org

or call 302-395-2700

Friday, September 16, 2011

Come Join Us at the Bear Library!

Come join the Office of Emergency Management at the Bear Public Library for a discussion on how to prepare for disasters.  We will be at the Bear Library on Sept.17th at 1pm. 

Friday, September 9, 2011

9/11 Day of Service

Volunteer Service Fair

 Blue Ball Barn

Alapocas Run State Park

1914 West Park Drive, Wilmington, DE 19803





Saturday, September 10th

10:00 am – 2:00 pm



Learn about service opportunities

Give time to a project Refreshments

FREE T-shirts



Governor’s Commission on Community and Volunteer Service

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Stay Informed How the Public will be alerted of a Major Emergency or Disaster:

If a situation or event becomes a potential threat to our residents and visitors, the public will be alerted by one (or several) of the following methods, as appropriate: 

  •  Delaware Emergency Notification System - The primary system for public warning and emergency protective action information will be the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS). DENS serves the entire state and is fully operational for residents and businesses that have listed telephone numbers. The DENS allows emergency voice messages to be delivered to a person answering the phone or to an answering machine. It also bypasses "zapper" type phone devices that stop incoming computer-generated calls often used by telemarketers. In addition to the State Emergency Operations Center and the Delaware State Police Communications Center in Smyrna, activating points for the DENS include the primary emergency 911 Centers in each county and Wilmington and the Division of Public Health. When the DENS system is activated, only 300 phone numbers can be dialed within one minute. DENS can provide emergency notification to the entire state or to an area as specifically defined as 10 houses on one street. Calls will include the name of the agency that activates the system, type of emergency, recommended protective actions, if any, and resources for obtaining additional information.  Appropriate Emergency Alert System radio stations and television stations will also be provided.
  • IMPORTANT: If your phone number is unlisted or if you use a cell phone as your primary phone, you MUST contact First Call Interactive Network at 1-866-484-3264 or visit the First Call website (https://alertregistration.com/dema/) to register for the DENS list. The registration line prompts callers through the registration process. There is no cost to register. A street address is necessary for cell phone users, and only one phone number per address is permitted.  The State of Delaware DOES NOT offer an official text message based alerting system.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Hurricane Irene Prompts Precautions in Delaware

With the first hurricane of the season predicted to track up the Atlantic Coast, Delaware emergency management officials are urging the public to take this storm very seriously. Even though it is too early to accurately predict the strength and exact path of Irene by the time it reaches the Delmarva area, everyone is encouraged to be prepared for disruptive weather.

Delaware Emergency Management Agency Director Jamie Turner urges everyone to use this time to review their household emergency plan and to check emergency supplies. He said it is very important for the public to also monitor the weather and be aware of pending effects of a storm well in advance in order to plan and act safely.

Have a plan, get a kit and stay informed,” Turner said. “We want everyone to have food and water for at least three days, batteries for lights and radios and a means of charging cell phones. Remember that part of your emergency plan is to have a destination in mind if you have to evacuate. If officials instruct you to evacuate, please do it.”

Additional things to consider in planning for an emergency include food and medications for those that might have special dietary or pharmaceutical needs and/or appropriate equipment for family members who might use assistive technology. Families also need to remember the needs of pets and stock adequate food and supplies as well as appropriate carriers or restraints should evacuation be required.

The DEMA Director said a very important component of each household emergency plan is to have important documents like medical records, deeds or leases, insurance records and birth certificates copied and stored where they can be easily accessed and packed in case of evacuation.

Turner reminds people that they can best cooperate and partner with emergency management officials and responders by staying informed and following recommendations and instructions.

DEMA and relevant partners statewide are in communication with the National Weather Service and will continue to regularly monitor conditions, keep the public informed and be ready to take appropriate actions as Irene draws nearer.

FEMA also encourages everyone, regardless of whether they live in a hurricane-prone area, to take steps to ensure their family, homes and businesses are prepared for a possible emergency.

"FEMA, along with the entire federal family, is closely monitoring Hurricane Irene, and is coordinating with all of our state and territorial partners that have or could potentially be impacted by this storm. We encourage residents to continue listening to the instructions of their local officials," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "For residents in states that may be affected later this week, it's critical that you take this storm seriously and take steps now to prepare your families, homes and businesses.”

For more infromation on making a household emergency plan and building a supply kit, visit prepareDE.org, Ready.gov or Listo.gov

For regional wether updates, visit http://www.erh.noaa.gov/phi/





Thursday, August 18, 2011

Hurricane Preparedness from Ready.gov

Hurricanes are severe tropical storms that form in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and in the eastern Pacific Ocean. People who live in hurricane prone communities should know their vulnerability, and what actions should be taken to reduce the effects of these devastating storms. The information on this page can be used to save lives at work, home, while on the road, or on the water.




Steps you can take to protect your family, property or business


Step 1: Build A Kit / "To-Go Bag"

Get an Emergency Supply Kit, which includes items like non-perishable food, water, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra flashlights and batteries. You may want to prepare a portable kit and keep it in your car in case you are told to evacuate.



Step 2: Make a Plan

Prepare your family

Make a Family Emergency Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency. You should also consider:

Evacuation plans

Family communications

Utility shut-off and safety

Safety skills

Prepare Your Business

Businesses have a critical role in preparedness. Putting a disaster plan in motion now will improve the likelihood that your company will survive and recover. Ready Business outlines commonsense measures business owners and managers can take to start getting ready.



Plan to Protect Property

Hurricanes cause heavy rains that can cause extensive flood damage in coastal and inland areas. Everyone is at risk and should consider flood insurance protection. Flood insurance is the only way to financially protect your property or business from flood damage. To learn more about your flooding risk and how to protect yourself and your business, visit the NFIP Web site, www.floodsmart.gov or call 1-800-427-2419.



For more detailed information on how you can protect your property, view the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration's printer-friendly handout Avoiding Hurricane Damage

In addition to insurance, you can also:



Cover all of your home's windows with pre-cut ply wood or hurricane shutters to protect your windows from high winds.

Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.

Keep all trees and shrubs well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.

Secure your home by closing shutters, and securing outdoor objects or bringing them inside.

Turn off utilities as instructed. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.

Turn off propane tanks.

Install a generator for emergencies

Reinforce your garage doors; if wind enters a garage, it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.

Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.

Find out how to keep food safe during and after and emergency by visiting www.FoodSafety.gov.

Step 3: Be Informed

Hurricane hazards come in many forms: lightning, tornadoes, flooding, storm surge, high winds, even landslides or mudslides can be triggered in mountainous regions. Look carefully at the safety actions associated with each type of hurricane hazard and prepare your family disaster plan accordingly. But remember this is only a guide. The first and most important thing anyone should do when facing a hurricane threat is to use common sense.



Learn about damaging and potentially deadly hurricane hazards

What to do during a hurricane

Get your children involved (kids site)

People with Disabilities and Other Access and Functional Needs

Care for pets

Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify a hurricane.



A hurricane watch means a hurricane is possible in your area. Be prepared to evacuate. Monitor local radio and television news outlets or listen to NOAA Weather Radio for the latest developments.

A hurricane warning is when a hurricane is expected in your area. If local authorities advise you to evacuate, leave immediately.

Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their wind speed, central pressure, and damage potential. Category Three and higher hurricanes are considered major hurricanes, though Categories One and Two are still extremely dangerous and warrant your full attention.





Recommended Training

FEMA's Emergency Management Institute (EMI) has developed a training program to encourage community hurricane preparedness. This computer-based course provides basic information about dealing with tropical cyclones and hurricanes. Visit www.training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/is324a.asp and select the ‘take this course’ option at the top of the right hand column to take the interactive web-based course.



Federal and National Resources

Find additional information on how to plan and prepare for a hurricane by visiting the following resources:



Federal Emergency Management Agency

NOAA Hurricane Center

American Red Cross

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control

Encourage Electronic Payments for Federal Benefit Recipients

Keep in mind a disaster can disrupt mail service for days or even weeks. For those who depend on the mail for their Social Security benefits, a difficult situation can become worse if they are evacuated or lose their mail service – as 85,000 check recipients learned after Hurricane Katrina. Switching to electronic payments is one simple, significant way people can protect themselves financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks.



The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:



Direct deposit to a checking or savings account is the best option for people with bank accounts. The Direct Express ® prepaid debit card is also available for people who don’t have a bank account. Federal benefit recipients can sign up by calling (800) 333-1795 or at www.GoDirect.org.

Thursday, June 30, 2011





Have you taken a CERT class and would like to supplement that training? The Texas Engineering Extension Service now offers a variety of awareness level courses online for CERT responders.


Here's another link for a webinar that will be covering introduction to disaster behavioral health on July 14th.


You must pre-register for the webinar and it will last approximatly 1 hour.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Cool News
The 2011 Summer Cooling Program Has Started &
If You Live In New Castle County Your Household MAY Qualify For A
Free Window Air Conditioner
Applications will be taken:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
{June 21th thru August 31st}
7:00am to 10:00am OR 2:00pm to 6:00pm

Interfaith Community Housing of DE, Inc.,
613 N Washington Street ~ Wilmington DE 19801

Guidelines:
Have not received an air conditioner within the last 3 ~ years
from any of the following agencies:
Catholic Charities,
Delaware State Health and Social Services / Div. of State Service Centers…
Delaware Community Foundation’s Operation Cool Air / Agencies...
First State Community Action Agency..,
Interfaith Community Housing of De, Inc..,
Neighborhood House, Inc..,

ALL HOUSEHOLDS MUST MEET THE INCOME ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS OF 200% OF POVERTY FFY’11


SIZE OF FAMILY ANNUAL INCOME MONTHLY INCOME


ONE $21,780.00$1,815.00

TWO $29,420.00 $2,451.00

THREE $37,060.00 $3,088.00
FOUR $44,700.00 $3,725.00
FIVE $52,340.00 $4,361.00
SIX $59,980.00 $4,998.00
SEVEN $67,620.00 $5,635.00
EIGHT $75,260.00 $6,271.00
FOR EACH ADDITIONAL HOUSEHOLD MEMBER ADD $636.00 PER MONTH OR $7,640.00 ANNUALLY.


EACH APPLICANT MUST BRING:
1. Copies of all income for everyone in the household…
2. Copy of current electric bill…
3. Birth certificates & social security cards for everyone in the household
4. Photo ID…

Program Funded By:
Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP)
Summer Cooling Assistance Program (SCAP)
State of Delaware U. S. Department of Health and Human Services
Program Administered By:
Interfaith Community Housing of DE. Inc.,

Monday, June 20, 2011

Floods

According to FEMA, flooding is the nation's most common natural disaster and can happen in every U.S. state and terrritory. It's important to be prepared for flooding no matter where you live, particularly if you live in low-lying areas such as those found in Delawar, new water or downstream from a dam.









Three Steps To Prepare For A Flood

1. Get A Kit


  • Your kit should contain essential food, water and supplies for each person in your household for at least three days, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra flashlights and batteries. Include important documents, identification and proof of residency, etc. You may also want to prepare a protable kit and keep it in your car.
2. Make A Plan

  • Make a Family Emergency Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes so it is important toknow how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.

  • Have prearranged meeting places both within and outside of your immediate neighborhood.

  • Because local phone lines might be jammed have a out-of-town contact family members can call and check-in with who can relay the messages if you should be separated.

  • Familiarize yourself with emergency plans at places where your family spends time: work, daycare, school, etc. If no plans exist, consider volunteering to help create one or contact the NCC Citizen Corps for help or advice.

  • Tailor your plan to the specific needs of your family

    • If needed make special considerations for small children, elderly or disabled members of your family.

    • Make a plan for your pets.

  • Take a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class such as the one being offered by the New Castle County Citizen Corps this weekend!

  • Purchase a flood insurance policy if you don't already have one or review your current insurance policy to ensure you're properly covered.
3. Be Informed





  • Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a flood hazard:

    • Flood Watch: Flooding is possible, Tune into NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for infromation.

    • Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.

    • Flood Warning: Flooding is occuring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate do so immediately.

    • Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occuring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Fire Corps Training





Register Today to Participate in the Fire Corps Academy
Hosted by the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association

What: Fire Corps is hosting two training sessions titled FC-100: Introduction to Fire Corps and FC-200: Starting and Implementing a Fire Corps Program. These are the first two courses in the Fire Corps Academy.
FC-100: Introduction to Fire Corps provides an overview of how the Fire Corps program is organized and introduces the benefits, depth, and scope of community volunteer activities in fire and emergency service departments. The session also identifies the basic steps and components to building the infrastructure of a local Fire Corps program.
FC-200: Starting and Implementing a Fire Corps Program teaches how to successfully grow a program along with avoiding and mitigating issues that slow or hinder healthy growth. Participants will learn about various volunteer management practices and be provided with sample documents and tips to help sustain and further their programs.
When: May 22, 2011. Each session lasts for one hour and 15 minutes. Sessions times are as follows:
· 8:30 am – Registration
· 9:00 am – FC-100
· 10:30 am – FC-200
Where: Delaware State Fire School
1461 Chestnut Grove RdDover DE 19904302-739-4773 phone302-739-6245 fax
Why: The Fire Corps Academy is a series of free training sessions and resources designed for Fire Corps program managers, department leaders, and local Fire Corps volunteers who wish to start and/or participate in a Fire Corps program. Department personnel and Fire Corps program coordinators can benefit from the training to learn about different aspects of implementing, managing, and expanding a local program.
Who Should Attend: Fire chiefs, department personnel, volunteers, and other interested parties who oversee or who will oversee or manage a Fire Corps Program or just want to learn more about Fire Corps.
How: Register online at https://nvfc.wufoo.com/forms/fire-corps-academy/ or click here to download the registration form and mail it to the DVFA office at P.O. Box 1849, Dover, DE 19903 or fax to the office at 302-734-9404. Registrations must be received by Monday, May 16, 2011. There is no cost to register and attend both courses.
About Fire Corps: Fire Corps is a federally-funded program under the Citizen Corps initiative, which is a national grassroots effort to help communities prevent, prepare for, and respond to natural disasters and other emergencies. Fire Corps connects community volunteers to their local emergency service department to provide non-operational support, thus increasing the capacity and services the department can offer. It is administered on a national level by the National Volunteer Fire Council in partnership with the International Association of Fire Chiefs and many other organizations that make up the National Advisory Committee.
About the Instructor: The classes will be taught by Warren Sprecher. Warren has been one of the Arizona Fire Corps State Advocates since March 2010. He is a Fire & Life Safety Education Specialist for the City of Mesa’s Fire Department. He oversees two of their Fire Corps Programs; Connectors and Cadets. Warren serves on the AZ Central Region Citizen Corps Council as well as chairing the AZ Central Region Fire Corps Committee. His experience includes being an EMT Instructor at New York City’s EMS Academy as well as a structural firefighter in the state of New Jersey. He previously held the position of Vice President supporting a global trading system for a large financial services firm. Warren holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a minor in Health Science.
Questions: Contact Mr. Allen Metheny, the National Volunteer Fire Council Delegate for Delaware, at 302-270-4712.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Volunteer Oppurtunities

New Castle County Platinum Picnic Volunteer Opportunities
Wednesday, June 8th at Banning Park
Banning Park at Maryland Avenue and Middleboro Road. Entrance to the park is on Middleboro Road. Follow the park road around and park toward the rear of main lot.

Event Description: The Platinum Picnic is a day full of entertainment, fun activities, and useful information for Seniors in New Castle County. For the last 61 years the Picnic has been an affordable way for hundreds of Seniors to enjoy each other’s company, visit vendor booths in the expo tent, and even kick up their heels on an open-air dance floor. Volunteers are needed to help make the day a relaxing and enjoyable one for attendees. This year’s theme is “A South of the Border Fiesta” so we encourage volunteers to join in the spirit and dress accordingly. The event begins at 10 am and concludes at 2:00 pm. Volunteers can choose an opportunity that fits their schedule or stay the whole day and assist in a variety of ways. Call or e-mail Susan Eggert to get signed up - seggert@nccde.org, (302) 395-5651.
THANK YOU for being the YOU in CommUnity!

Volunteer Opportunities


1) Parking – Must be at least 18 years old. Direct cars and buses to appropriate parking and off-loading areas. 9:00 am to 10:30 am. Many participants will be driving their own cars and will need guidance to the parking lot. Buses will need to be directed to the off-loading areas, too. This is a good opportunity for CERT, VIPS member or Citizen Corps members. Volunteers will be provided with a bright vest so drivers can identify them. Six of volunteers needed from 9-10:30 am. Two volunteers needed to direct buses from 1:30-2:30 pm.

2) Greeters and Guiders – Friendly help is needed to assist Seniors as they descend from the buses and find their seats under the tent and again to assist with getting back on the bus at the end of the day. This is also a good opportunity for CERT, VIPS member or Citizen Corps members. Five volunteers needed from 9-11:00 am. Three volunteers needed from 1-2:30 pm.

3) Liaisons – These volunteers will make sure the participants hear announcements of door prize winners, assists any Seniors who are called up to the stage, encourages picnickers to join the dancing and visit the information tent. Could include helping with 50/50 sales and delivering door prizes to winners. Eight volunteers are needed from 11-1:30 am.

4) Distributing boxed lunches and refreshments- Serving hundreds of attendees by handing out boxed lunches and refreshments is a simple yet important task. We don’t want any attendees to be hungry or thirsty! Four volunteers are needed from 11:30 am to 12 pm.

5) Morning Set-up – 8-10 am This is a bit physical as it requires setting up and arranging tables and chairs throughout and for the agencies participating in the information tent. 10 volunteers are needed.

6) Afternoon Take-Down – This is physical work and a good workout as all chairs and tables need to be taken down and stacked. 10 volunteers are needed from 1:30 to 2:30 pm.

Other details:
Volunteers will be welcomed and given a brief training at the information table. As assigned tasks are completed feel free to mingle with the Seniors. Line dancing anyone?

Contact Information: Any questions contact Susan Eggert at seggert@nccde.org, 395-5651 or on the day of the event 379-2452.

Location: Banning Park at Maryland Avenue and Middleboro Road. Entrance to the park is on Middleboro Road. Follow the park road around and park toward the rear of main lot.

Volunteer’s Benefits:
1) Be happy in the knowledge that you are helping provide an enjoyable and affordable day for hundreds of Seniors who may not be able or comfortable enough to venturing out on their own.
2) Have fun volunteering with co-workers or team members.
3) Meet new people.
4) If you are in high school your hours will be documented and can count toward service hours.
5) Learn more about New Castle County’s programs and services.
6) Find out about the many ways you can continue to make a difference in our community by volunteering with New Castle County.



It’s no time for a siesta,
come join our fiesta!



62nd Annual
PLATINUM
PICNIC



Wednesday, June 8, 2011
10am-2pm Banning Park






Entertainment ō€ŗ Expo Tent ō€ŗ Line Dancing
50/50 Drawing & Mucho Mucho More!






Awards for Best Dressed South of the Border Gal, Best Dressed
South of the Border Guy, Best Dressed South of the Border Couple
Register early with your Center or call 302-395-5655.






Department of Community Services
Paul G. Clark, County Executive

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Help Preserve Iron Hill Park!


Join the New Castle County Department of Special Services and the Friends of Iron Hill Park and national Civiliam Community Corps in CLEANING UP Iron Hill Park. Volunteers will be working on a variety of projects including trash removal, trail post removal, moving piles of debris and removing brush from around the exterior of the museum. Gather family and friends and join your community in preserving this beautiful park for yourself and future generations.


Saturday April 2nd 9am - noon

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Police Departments Benefit from Volunteers

An article by Jesse McKinley in the New York Times online, published March 1, 2011, highlights how police departments around the country are turning to volunteers for help in getting their challenging work done. According to the article, many jurisdictions are participating in "an experiment by departments across the country that enlists trained amateurs to perform a broad — and occasionally dangerous — array of investigative duties like collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, searching for missing persons and looking into long-dormant cases." Read the full article here. Also, check out Volunteers In Police Service, a Citizen Corps partner organization that provides support and resources for agencies interested in developing or enhancing a volunteer program and for citizens who wish to volunteer their time and skills with a community law enforcement agency.

Monday, March 21, 2011

March is American Red Cross Month

March is American Red Cross Month, a great opportunity for citizens, families and businesses to review disaster plans and build or restock emergency kits. According to FEMA Region IX Administrator Ken Murphy, the American Red Cross not only provides help, hope and healing when disaster strikes, but also offers a wide selection of CPR/AED, first aid, disaster response and emergency preparedness training. "The Red Cross is FEMA's major partner coordinating food and shelter during catastrophic disasters, but the key to any successful emergency response, regardless of the nature of the event, is personal preparedness," said Murphy. "Red Cross classes and resources help people prepare with a few simple steps: build an emergency supply kit, make an emergency plan, and stay informed of the hazards in your area. These resources can go a long way towards empowering our communities to make a real difference when the chips are down." To read more about the American Red Cross go to their website at www.redcross.org.

Friday, March 18, 2011

DELAWARE TO DISTRIBUTE POTASSIUM IODIDE

DELAWARE TO DISTRIBUTE POTASSIUM IODIDE TABLETS
APRIL 6, VOLUNTEER HOSE CO, MIDDLETOWN
The Delaware Emergency Management Agency and the Delaware Division of Public Health will conduct distribution of potassium iodide (KI) tablets, free of charge, on Wednesday, April 6, 1-7 p.m., to Delaware residents in the area who live within 10 miles of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations. Tablets will be available to those who have received potassium iodide during previous distribution dates and to those who have never received potassium iodide.
Wednesday, April 6, 1 - 7 p.m., Volunteer Hose Co., 27 W. Green St., Middletown, DE
Potassium iodide (KI) is an over-the-counter medication that can protect the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine, which may be released in the event of a radiation emergency.
Potassium iodide does not protect against external radiation, but it can help protect the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine that is ingested or inhaled. Potassium iodide is a supplement to Delaware’s existing emergency plans developed for use in a nuclear incident. Evacuation remains the primary method of protecting Delaware residents; the potassium iodide will offer additional protection.
All Delaware residents who live within the 10-mile EPZ, and those who work or own businesses within 10 miles of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations in New Jersey are eligible for free potassium iodide tablets.
Those eligible for potassium iodide are asked to bring photo identification, such as a driver’s license, and proof of residency, such as a utility bill. If you currently have potassium iodide that has passed the expiration date, please bring the tablets with you when you come to pick up your new tablets.
For additional information regarding the potassium iodide distribution program in Delaware and the use and properties of potassium iodide, and the radiological preparedness program visit the DEMA website, www.dema.delaware.gov. You may also call the Delaware Emergency Management Agency Radiological Emergency Planning section at 302-659-3362,

Thursday, March 17, 2011

FEMA asks: How do you stay prepared on a budget?

This Citizen Corps notice is provided by FEMA's Individual & Community Preparedness Division to highlight community preparedness and resilience resources and activities recently announced by federal agencies and Citizen Corps partners.
FEMA asks: How do you stay prepared on a budget? The economic downturn has made staying prepared more difficult in recent years. Fortunately, many Americans have found creative and inexpensive ways to be ready in case of an emergency. FEMA asks, what steps have you taken to stay prepared on a budget? We are looking for items and their uses, tips, stories, and good practices. What items do you keep in your home, car, or workspace that help you stay prepared? Have you been involved in a disaster and found a particular yet inexpensive item especially useful? Are there inexpensive ways that help you fulfill the Ready.gov recommendations (http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=bWFpbGluZ2lkPTEyNTY1ODMmbWVzc2FnZWlkPVBSRC1CVUwtMTI1NjU4MyZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTEyNzY1ODY1ODUmZW1haWxpZD1kY2FycGVudGVyQGNvLm5ldy1jYXN0bGUuZGUudXMmdXNlcmlkPWRjYXJwZW50ZXJAY28ubmV3LWNhc3RsZS5kZS51cyZmbD0mZXh0cmE9TXVsdGl2YXJpYXRlSWQ9JiYm&&&100&&&http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html) for a preparedness kit? To help you get started thinking of ideas, we have provided an example guide for preparing on a budget from the Seattle Red Cross, the Everett Office of Emergency Management, and ReadyCorps. Before April 30, 2011, please send your suggestions to citizencorps@dhs.gov and put “Preparing on a Budget” in the subject line. We look forward to reading your ideas and examples!
This notice and other Individual & Community Preparedness news can be found on our website at http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=bWFpbGluZ2lkPTEyNTY1ODMmbWVzc2FnZWlkPVBSRC1CVUwtMTI1NjU4MyZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTEyNzY1ODY1ODUmZW1haWxpZD1kY2FycGVudGVyQGNvLm5ldy1jYXN0bGUuZGUudXMmdXNlcmlkPWRjYXJwZW50ZXJAY28ubmV3LWNhc3RsZS5kZS51cyZmbD0mZXh0cmE9TXVsdGl2YXJpYXRlSWQ9JiYm&&&102&&&http://www.citizencorps.gov/.
Sincerely, The National Office of Citizen Corps FEMA Individual & Community Preparedness Division

Monday, March 14, 2011

Get Ready for Flood Safety Awareness Week - March 14-18, 2011

Get Ready for Flood Safety Awareness Week - March 14-18, 2011 Flooding is a coast to coast threat to the United States and its territories in all months of the year. National Flood Safety Awareness Week, from March 14 to 18 this year, is intended to highlight some of the many ways floods can occur, the hazards associated with floods, and what you can do to save life and property. You can prepare yourself and help prepare your communities by educating yourself on the risks of flooding and the ways you can prepare and respond to flooding. Here are some resources to get you started: The Ready Campaign has a page dedicated to flood safety awareness at www.ready.gov/floodawareness. FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program has a variety of resources at www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/. Also, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has a Flood Safety page at www.floodsafety.noaa.gov. The DHS Center for Faith Based & Neighborhood Partnerships will hold a National Flood Awareness Safety Week Stakeholder conference call, Tuesday, March 15 from 12-1PM EST that will provide additional information on what it means to get ready for flood season. There is a limit of 300 people on the call. Call-in information is: 1-888-391-6569 Pin # 8622712.

Friday, March 11, 2011

Flash Flood Safety at Home


Flash Flood Safety at Home
Mar 28th, 2008 By Keli Tarp Category: Podcasts

Another home in West Virginia was torn apart by the flooding of the nearby Clear Fork Creek on July 14, 2001. Photo by Leif Skoogfors/ FEMA News Photo

It’s time yet again for another podcast of “That Weather Show,” brought to you by the NOAA Weather Partners in Norman, Oklahoma. I’m Rachel Forsyth.
When you hear the word ‘water’, you may think of swimming pools or weekends at the lake. You might even think of a long rainy day. But that seemingly harmless rain water can become so dangerous that it kills more people each year than tornadoes, hurricanes and lightning. We call this a flash flood.
A flash flood is not something that takes days to happen, like a regular flood. Instead, it’s a situation that can develop quickly.
In some cases, it may not even be raining where you live. However, if the rain has fallen upstream, that means it will be heading to your area soon.

This Garland, WV home was damaged by the flash flood of May 2, 2002. Bob McMillan/FEMA Photo
A Flash Flood Watch means that flash flooding is possible in or near the watch area. While a Flash Flood Warning means that flooding is occurring in the area or will be very soon.
If you live in a low-lying area or near a river, stream, or dam then you need to be prepared to evacuate quickly. If not, the rapidly rising flood waters could leave you trapped. The last place you want to be is on your roof, waiting for a boat or helicopter to take you to safety.
You can find out all types of hazardous weather conditions by listening to NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards.
Thanks for listening to another podcast of That Weather Show brought to you by the NOAA Weather Partners in Norman, Oklahoma. I’m Rachel Forsyth.

Monday, February 14, 2011

June CERT Class
















New Castle County Citizen Corps is proud to announce that we will be sponsoring a
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training course on June 24th and 25th.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Here are the details:

Who: New Castle County Residents and those who work in New Castle County

What: CERT- FREE Community Emergency Response Team training. A 2 day class. Dinner will be provided the first night and a continental breakfast and lunch will be provided the second day. FREE CERT bag provided to participants.

We will cover: Disaster preparedness, terrorism awareness, light search and rescue,fire suppression, First Aid, CPR, AED, and other topics.

Where:Cpl. Paul J. Sweeney Public Safety Building
3601 N. DuPont Hwy New Castle DE 19720
Click here for directions

When: 2 Day class
June 24th, 4pm - 9pm
June 25th, 8am - 5 pm
http://ncccitizencorps.blogspot.com/

How to sign up: email citizencorps@nccde.org or call (302) 395-2700

Saturday, February 12, 2011

February is Earthquake Awareness Month


DHS and FEMA Updates
February is Earthquake Awareness Month - Earthquake Mitigation Saves Lives See this video showing two separate earthquake mitigation activity testimonials from California business owners/operators. Mr. Hoyt Fields of Hearst Castle in San Simeon, CA and Mr. Jim Saunders of Pasa de Robles, CA both provide brief explanations of the earthquake mitigation activities that they have taken to protect their businesses. Click here to see the video. For additional earthquake preparedness resources please visit: http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=bWFpbGluZ2lkPTEyMDg2MTUmbWVzc2FnZWlkPVBSRC1CVUwtMTIwODYxNSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTEyNzY1NjgzMDkmZW1haWxpZD1kY2FycGVudGVyQGNvLm5ldy1jYXN0bGUuZGUudXMmdXNlcmlkPWRjYXJwZW50ZXJAY28ubmV3LWNhc3RsZS5kZS51cyZmbD0mZXh0cmE9TXVsdGl2YXJpYXRlSWQ9JiYm&&&101&&&http://www.fema.gov/hazard/earthquake/eq_before.shtm to learn what you can do before an Earthquake strikes and http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=bWFpbGluZ2lkPTEyMDg2MTUmbWVzc2FnZWlkPVBSRC1CVUwtMTIwODYxNSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTEyNzY1NjgzMDkmZW1haWxpZD1kY2FycGVudGVyQGNvLm5ldy1jYXN0bGUuZGUudXMmdXNlcmlkPWRjYXJwZW50ZXJAY28ubmV3LWNhc3RsZS5kZS51cyZmbD0mZXh0cmE9TXVsdGl2YXJpYXRlSWQ9JiYm&&&102&&&http://www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/earthquakes.html. Also, be sure to go to http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=bWFpbGluZ2lkPTEyMDg2MTUmbWVzc2FnZWlkPVBSRC1CVUwtMTIwODYxNSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTEyNzY1NjgzMDkmZW1haWxpZD1kY2FycGVudGVyQGNvLm5ldy1jYXN0bGUuZGUudXMmdXNlcmlkPWRjYXJwZW50ZXJAY28ubmV3LWNhc3RsZS5kZS51cyZmbD0mZXh0cmE9TXVsdGl2YXJpYXRlSWQ9JiYm&&&103&&&http://www.shakeout.org/centralus/ to learn about the 2011 Great Central U.S. ShakeOut being held on April 28. You can practice how to protect yourself during an earthquake and learn how to get prepared.

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Burn Awareness Week


This is Burn Awareness Week - Get Educated on Burn Prevention This is Burn Awareness Week (February 6 - 12). One of the main areas of focus for this year’s Burn Awareness Week is the prevention of scald burns. This is a great opportunity to get educated on burn prevention and safety. View a list of burn prevention tips on the Fire Corps web site, learn more about Burn Awareness Week at http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=bWFpbGluZ2lkPTEyMDg2MTUmbWVzc2FnZWlkPVBSRC1CVUwtMTIwODYxNSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTEyNzY1NjgzMDkmZW1haWxpZD1kY2FycGVudGVyQGNvLm5ldy1jYXN0bGUuZGUudXMmdXNlcmlkPWRjYXJwZW50ZXJAY28ubmV3LWNhc3RsZS5kZS51cyZmbD0mZXh0cmE9TXVsdGl2YXJpYXRlSWQ9JiYm&&&105&&&http://www.safekids.org/, and find prevention campaign materials from the American Burn Association.

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Weather Update

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey, has issued the following weather statement.

NWS 1pm update:
Precipitation in the form of freezing rain is forecast to move in around midnight tonight through 12 noon Wednesday. NCC could receive 1/4" of ice from this system. Temperatures should rise to around 40 degrees by mid-morning Wednesday, and the precipitation should changeover to rain and is expected to completely end by mid-afternoon Wednesday.

NWS 3pm update:
...FREEZING RAIN ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 AM WEDNESDAY...

Drizzle and spotty freezing drizzle will become freezing rain between 9 pm and midnight tonight, coming down briefly heavy before dawn. Temperatures at dawn should rise to near 33 degrees when the freezing rain changes to rain. Glaze accumulations of around 2/10 of an inch are forecast tonight.

DelDOT crews status is being considered. Special Services crews will be in tonight and early morning Wednesday. Public Safety Divisions have increased staffing. EOC will have a watch person on tonight starting at 11 pm.

Office of Emergency Management
395-2700

Monday, January 31, 2011

Updated Weather Statement

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey, has issued the following weather statement.

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 PM TUESDAY...

...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM TUESDAY EVENING THROUGH WEDNESDAY MORNING...

Snow beginning tonight between 9 - 10 pm with 1 inch of accumulation possible. Precipitation will changeover to freezing rain before the Tuesday morning commute for north and central NCC; possibly rain south of the C&D Canal. Precipitation should stop by end of the Tuesday morning commute.

During the day Tuesday, there will be an additional light precipitation of sleet and freezing rain north of the C&D Canal.

During the Tuesday afternoon/evening commute, precipitation will be in the form of light freezing rain/rain/freezing rain mixture north of the C&D Canal.

Tuesday evening into the Wednesday morning commute, possibly prolonged freezing rain will occur before the changeover to rain late Wednesday morning to mid-day Wednesday. Before the commute Wednesday evening, precipitation will change back to snow with little accumulation before the precipitation ends Wednesday.

DelDOT and NCC facility crews will be working adjusted schedules to cover the Tuesday morning commute.

NCC OEM will be monitoring icing conditions and potential impact for power outages on Tuesday, with further impact for power outages and structural building issues on Wednesday.

Winter Storm Feb 1st and 2nd

Weather BriefingWinter Storm February 1st& 2nd, 2011
Prepared 11 AM EST –Monday January 31, 2011
Joe Miketta
NOAA’s National Weather Service
Philadelphia/Mt. Holly NJ Forecast office
Weather.gov/phi




A major winter storm is on the way for Tuesday February 1stthrough Wednesday February 2nd.
•Two phases expected with this system…mainly snow starting around midnight or so tonight lasting into Tuesday morning. Then a lull before precipitation begins again Tuesday evening.
•Primary impacts from this storm will be significant icing from freezing rain, heavy wet snow, heavy rain and coastal flooding.
•As of 11 AM Monday, a Winter Storm Watch is posted for the northern two-thirds of the NWS Mount Holly County Warning Area (CWA). Warnings/Advisories will most likely be issued later today (Monday).
•Precipitation will begin as snow throughout most of the Mount Holly CWA during the overnight hours tonight (midnight or so). Most of this precipitation will stay in the form of snow and will taper off by mid-morning. Some freezing rain could mix in at times toward morning, mainly south. The second round of precipitation will begin during the evening hours on Tuesday, beginning as snow in the north, but perhaps a snow/sleet/freezing rain mixture in the south. As warmer air moves in aloft, a changeover from frozen precipitation to plain rain is expected from the south into the Philadelphia suburbs. However, a complete change-over to plain rain is not expected over the far northern suburbs of Philadelphia, the Lehigh Valley, the southern Poconos or northern NJ north of I-195.
•Icing threat: There continues to be a high risk for significant icing (in excess of 0.25 inches) due to freezing rain. There is a moderate risk for severe icing (in excess of 0.50 inches). Chances of a catastrophic ice storm (in excess of 0.75 inches) are low, but still possible. Most likely timing for icing is late Tuesday evening into Wednesday (with the second phase). Highest risk areas for most severe icing is north and west of the I-95 Corridor. See icing slide for more details.
•Heavy snow threat: Snow will begin during the overnight hours tonight, and continue into Tuesday morning. Two to four inches is possible by the beginning of Tuesday morning’s commute (higher amounts north, lower amounts in the Philadelphia area). Additional accumulations can be expected during the second phase of the storm, especially north of Philadelphia. However, sleet/freezing rain/rain mixture will keep additional amounts down. There is a threat for 4+ inches of snow from this event (both phases), with the highest risk in east central PA into northern NJ.
•Rainfall threat: Areas which see primarily rain (south & east of the I-95 Corridor) can see rainfall amounts in excess of one inch. This will cause localized flooding problems. Flooding problems will be exacerbated in those areas which currently have considerable snow pack, as storm drains and culverts may be blocked by snow/ice.
•Coastal flooding threat: New moon occurs Wednesday, February 2nd, so regular high tides will be running high. Therefore, there is an enhanced risk of minor coastal flooding at the times of high tide.
•Maintain situational awareness by monitoring our website at: http://weather.gov/phi

Monday, January 24, 2011

Weather Briefing for Jan 26, 2011

Weather BriefingPotential Winter Storm Jan 26, 2011
Prepared 900 AM EST –Monday January 24, 2011
Joe Miketta
NOAA’s National Weather Service
Philadelphia/Mt. Holly NJ Forecast office
Weather.gov/phi


•The potential is growing for a significant nor’easter during the mid-week period. Guidance continues to suggest this storm will affect the area on Wednesday, January 26th, but exact timing will be fine-tuned as the event unfolds.
•Given the expected track of the storm, significant snow is expected in the southern Poconos and northwest New Jersey. A mixture of snow/sleet/freezing rain/rain is possible in the Lehigh Valley and adjacent areas of central New Jersey, and into the northern suburbs of Philadelphia. Mainly rain is expected from Philadelphia south. A more westward (inland) track would produce more rain and less snow.
•We need to be concerned with all the threats a major nor'easter can bring: significant snow & ice, heavy rain, coastal flooding, & strong winds.In addition, with over one inch of rain possible south and east of Philadelphia, runoff over frozen ground could pose minor flooding problems. The specific threats of each of these elements will become better focused as the event unfolds.

For you latest weather forcasts also check out:
http://www.weather.com/forecast/

Winter Weather Storm This Week



Another East Coast Storm Looms! - weather.com
http://www.weather.com/outlook/weather

Thursday, January 13, 2011

9/11 Drill Down

A 30 minute video has been produced that showcases some of the government leaders in the AHC (All Hazards Consortium) and their support of public preparedness efforts. This video is being used to promote the 9/11 Drill Down for Safety program, a truly public/private collaboration effort that is self funded and has apparently attracted the attention and support of NBC, USA Today, FEMA, UPS, the National PTA, Motorola, Verizon and dozens of other public and private sector organizations around the country.

The 9/11 Drill Down is a public preparedness drill aimed at the next generation (and their parents, families and employers) to help them communicate via text messaging instead of phone calls during an emergency. Text first, talk second. As most young people have a cell phone and using texting more the voice calling, this program is easy for them do; allows them to recruit the friends on Facebook, Twitter and MySpace; motivates them to tell their parents and employers about it and maybe teach them how to use text messaging; and make preparedness “kool and relevant” to their world. Last year over 400,000 people signed up for the Drill Down program nationwide. This year’s effort will most likely be over 1 million.

Link to video: http://www.safeamericaprepared.org/webinars/96.html

The video has been reviewed and approved by those appearing in it. This video is live on their website.



What is the 9/11 Drill Down?

Drill A – Family/Friend/ Emergency Contact: Send, Receive, and Confirm text message with family member or friend.

1. Individual sends a text message to a family member and/or friend during the exercise, e.g., “I M OK”/ “R U OK”

2. Family member/friend responds with “I M OK”

Drill B – Employer to Employee Groups: Send, Receive and Confirm text messages with employees.

1. Employer sends text message to employees announcing a drill, e.g., “This is a texting drill through the alert notification system. For more information on preparedness, please go to (organization website) or contact (supervisor, safety department, etc.) for more information.”

2. Employees respond by going to the website and/or making the suggested contact for more information on preparedness.

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

NOAA Weather Radio Now Numbers 1000 Transmitters!


What's New...
NOAA Weather Radio Now Numbers 1000 Transmitters!
NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR) is a nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the nearest National Weather Service office. NWR broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Working with the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) Emergency Alert System , NWR is an "All Hazards" radio network, making it your single source for comprehensive weather and emergency information. In conjunction with Federal, State, and Local Emergency Managers and other public officials, NWR also broadcasts warning and post-event information for all types of hazards – including natural (such as earthquakes or avalanches), environmental (such as chemical releases or oil spills), and public safety (such as AMBER alerts or 911 Telephone outages).
Known as the "Voice of NOAA's National Weather Service," NWR is provided as a public service by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), part of the Department of Commerce. NWR includes 1000 transmitters, covering all 50 states, adjacent coastal waters, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the U.S. Pacific Territories. NWR requires a special radio receiver or scanner capable of picking up the signal. Broadcasts are found in the VHF public service band at these seven frequencies (MHz):
162.400
162.425
162.450
162.475
162.500
162.525
162.550 Microsoft Word Player: View, print and copy Word documents, even if you don't have Word installed.
EspaƱol, News, General Info, Coverage Maps, Station Listings, Automated Voices, Receiver Info, SAME Coding, All Hazards, EAS, Report NWR Outages, Special Needs, FAQs
Information from www.weather.gov

Sunday, January 2, 2011



NEW Online FamilyEmergency Planning Tools
Try the Online Family Emergency Plan (FEP) Tool

No Time for Online Forms?Download the Family Emergency Plan (FEP) PDF pages, print and fill them in Offline.

Download All FEP Pages 3 MbDownload the FEP Adult Folding Wallet Card 1.7 MbDownload the FEP Child's Folding Wallet Card 1.7 MbDownload the FEP Additional Family Members List 500 KbDownload the Condensed FEP 512 KbDownload the MS Excel FEP 400 Kb
Email to a Friend.
Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to plan in advance: how you will contact one another; how you will get back together; and what you will do in different situations.
Family Emergency Plan
Identify an out-of town contact. It may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an out-of-town contact may be in a better position to communicate among separated family members.
Be sure every member of your family knows the phone number and has a cell phone, coins, or a prepaid phone card to call the emergency contact. If you have a cell phone, program that person(s) as "ICE" (In Case of Emergency) in your phone. If you are in an accident, emergency personnel will often check your ICE listings in order to get a hold of someone you know. Make sure to tell your family and friends that you’ve listed them as emergency contacts.
Teach family members how to use text messaging (also knows as SMS or Short Message Service). Text messages can often get around network disruptions when a phone call might not be able to get through.
Subscribe to alert services. Many communities now have systems that will send instant text alerts or e-mails to let you know about bad weather, road closings, local emergencies, etc. Sign up by visiting your local Office of Emergency Management web site.
Planning to Stay or Go
Depending on your circumstances and the nature of the emergency, the first important decision is whether you stay where you are or evacuate. You should understand and plan for both possibilities. Use common sense and available information, including what you are learning here, to determine if there is an immediate danger. In any emergency, local authorities may or may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet often for information or official instruction as it becomes available. Further information on staying put or sheltering in place.
Emergency Information
Find out what kinds of disasters, both natural and man-made, are most likely to occur in your area and how you will be notified. Methods of getting your attention vary from community to community. One common method is to broadcast via emergency radio and TV broadcasts. You might hear a special siren, or get a telephone call, or emergency workers may go door-to-door.
Emergency Plans
Use the New Online Family Emergency Planning Tool created by the Ready Campaign in conjunction with the Ad Council to prepare a printable Comprehensive Family Emergency Plan.
Use the Quick Share application to help your family in assembling a quick reference list of contact information for your family, and a meeting place for emergency situations.
You may also want to inquire about emergency plans at places where your family spends time: work, daycare and school. If no plans exist, consider volunteering to help create one. Talk to your neighbors about how you can work together in the event of an emergency. You will be better prepared to safely reunite your family and loved ones during an emergency if you think ahead and communicate with others in advance. Read more: School and Workplace.
top of page
« Pet Items Stay or Go Overview »
Information from Ready.gov for more information go to

Delaware Citizen Corps Current Events

Communications Corps

New Castle County Citizen Corps