Jeff Sands, Community Relations Coordinator / Public Information Officer for the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, discussed DEMA – part of the Delaware Department of Homeland Security and the ‘the orchestra conductor’ for the band of emergency responders, agencies and non-profits working to help Delaware prevent disaster and to help with recovery after one. He spoke about the Major Disaster Declaration approved for Delaware from Tropical Storm Ida and its federal aid for local government, state government, and non-profits in NCC, including historic properties such as the Hagley Museum and Bancroft Bridge repairs. Funds can also help with hazard mitigation projects and the U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest loans can help businesses, non-profits, home-owners, and renters with loans to cover expenses and repairs. On mitigation, he discussed measures to save Delaware residents and businesses, we are the lowest lying state on the East Coast and one of the flattest, up to 20% is expected to be lost to the sea by the end of this century. He talked about zoning and other measures proposed to combat climate related losses.
With the changing of the seasons, he reminded us to visit prepare.DE.org to get ready for weather or other emergencies. He advises us to make a plan, make a kit and stay informed. Discuss where you will go in an emergency, how you will stay in touch with family and friends and how you can help keep tabs on older or isolated neighbors; add blankets and winter gear to your ‘go’ kit and stay up-to-date on weather and other emergency situations. With fuel cost s expected to almost double he reminded us that aid is there through the Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP), a federally funded program that can help with your home heating. Apply early! Finallly, part of the planning includes getting a COVID and Flu vaccination, you don’t want to be sick during an emergency, especially if you are being evacuated to a shelter.