Sussex County Gears Up for National Preparedness Month

SUSSEX COUNTY, Del. – September is National Preparedness Month, and Sussex County Officials are reminding the public that preparation is key to staying safe this fall.

This month, Emergency Management is partnering with county libraries to showcase sample disaster kits, which the public can use as a model to replicate in their homes, businesses, schools, and other places. The sample kits include a variety of items; including a watertight container, first aid kit, flashlight and batteries, portable weather radio, non-perishable food, and medication bottles, among other would-be necessities that would be indispensable during an emergency. 

“Much of these are everyday items that people already have in their homes, but they might not be collected into one place,” Emergency Manager Timothy Cooper said. “The lesson here, especially during National Preparedness Month, is to take a few minutes now, when you have the time, to make sure you, your family, and your property are ready for the worst, when time might be of the essence. So, make a disaster plan, create a kit, stay informed, and get engaged.”

County Librarian Rachel Lynch expressed how local libraries remain a critical community resource to impart knowledge, and stated that the partnership is a natural fit. “Being able to see the kits in person, all in one place, hopefully that will resonate maybe a bit more and motivate people to take action,” Ms. Lynch said.

The kits are on display at the Greenwood, Milton, and South Coastal  libraries, as well as on the Emergency Management division’s website.