Resolve to be Ready in 2012

Help your friends and neighbors “Resolve to be Ready” in 2012.” Visit www.ready.gov/resolve for more information designed to encourage citizens to make disaster preparedness a New Year’s resolution. Spread the word to local businesses, schools, faith-based, and other community organizations.

Statewide CERT Training

On December 9th and 10th, the State Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) conducted its end of year waiting list training in Smyrna. The class was held at the St. Poly Carps Church.

Citizens from Sussex, Kent and New Castle Counties attended, with approximately forty individuals receiving CERT training.

The class was made up of members of the State Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), Sussex County Civil Air Patrol (CAP), Del Tech- Terry Campus students, and Smyrna Police Department's Volunteers in Police (VIPS). Additionally, citizens from Smyrna, Wilmington, and New Castle, and a DEMA Staff member attended. The Smyrna/Clayton Times Newspaper and Smyrna Mayor Pat Stombaugh visited the training. Jack Dinge’e was the local point of contact for this class.

We would like to extend a special thanks to Father Thomas Flowers for offering his Parish for allowing Citizen Corps to conduct the training.

Winter Fire Safety

Each winter, an estimated 108,400 home fires occur in the United States, resulting in approximately 945 deaths and $1.7 billion in property loss. Cooking is the leading cause of winter home fires, and holiday decorations and winter storms can cause people to turn to alternative heating sources, such as space heaters, which account for about one third of home heating fires and approximately 80 percent of home heating fire deaths.

Winter fires can be prevented! The following fire safety tips can help maintain a fire-safe home this winter season:

• Stay in the kitchen when cooking something on top of the stove or when grilling or broiling food.
• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from space heaters, woodstoves, etc.
• Replace damaged electrical or extension cords.
• Never use the oven or stovetop to heat a home; carbon monoxide gas can kill people and pets.
• Don't put a live Christmas tree up too early or leave it up for longer than two weeks. Keep the tree stand filled with water.
• Avoid using lighted candles; try flameless candles instead.

For more information, visit the U.S. Fire Administration Web site and the National Fire Protection Agency Web site.

Hospital Preparedness Presentation

On November 30th, the Delaware Citizen Corps Staff and lead Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Instructor Dave Young provided a third Disaster Preparedness Presentation at the Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware. Seventeen members of the Legal Council and Risk Management Team received the presentation at their bi-monthly staff meeting.

The point of contact for the presentation was Gay Lynn Rice.

Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health CERT Class

On November 17th and 18th, the State Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) provided a CERT Training class for the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH) Staff.

Twenty two members attended the class held in the Lower Sussex Building's Training Room at the Herman Holloway Campus in Newark. This was the second CERT Course held at the campus; the first was held in 2008. The point of contact for the class was Dr. Carol Kuprevich, Training Office Administrator.

Delaware State University Preparedness Presentation

On November 10th, Citizen Corps Staff members Bob George and Marny McLee provided a Disaster Preparedness Presentation at the Delaware State University (DSU) campus as part of a "Crisis Management and Preparation Workshop" for staff and students.

They were joined by Joe Papili of the United States Marshals for Delaware and Delaware State Police (Ret.), who presented on "Emergency Planning for Active Shooters." He tailored his presentation for college students and campus staff. The point of contact for the workshop was Rashidah McCoy as part of her Senior Capstone Project.

Marydel Community Preparedness Presentation

On November 9th, Bob George and Marny McLee (Citizen Corps Staff) were joined by Don Knox (Natural Hazards Supervisor) of DEMA as they presented a Disaster Preparedness Presentation for the Marydel Senior Community Association at their monthly meeting. Dave Carpenter, the New Castle County Coordinator of Emergency Management, gave a presentation on Kent County's Evacuation Plan and how it applies to their organization during a disaster.

He was joined by Ashley Reilley of the Emergency Services Corps (ESC) at the New Castle County Office of Emergency Management (OEM). To start things off, Representative Osienski gave a presentation on a few current events in the district that applied to seniors and the MaryDel Community. The point of contact for the event was Ms. Adie Ecret.

Kent County Crime Watch Presentation

On November 3rd, Bob George and Marny McLee (Citizen Corps Staff) provided a Disaster Preparedness Presentation in Dover at the Kent County Levy Court Building. Approximately 75 members of the Kent County Crime Watch Committee, as well as members from each community, attended the monthly meeting and presentation.

Citizen Corps showed their Disaster Preparedness DVD, which focuses on “Making a Plan, Making a Kit, and Sheltering in Place and Evacuation Procedures.” Preparedness materials were also distributed to those in attendance. The Delaware State Police (DSP) are part of the committee, and oversee the Crime Watch Group for Kent County. The Point of Contact (POC) for the presentation was Bill Hulik.

Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test on Nov. 9th

On Wednesday, Nov. 9th, Delaware will join all other states in conducting the first nationwide Emergency Alert System (EAS) test. At 2 p.m. EST, radio, television and cable stations will broadcast the familiar alert warning sound. Following the alert sound, the recorded message on broadcast media will state “This is a test.” The audio message will be the same for both radio and television.

At the conclusion of the 30 second test script, all broadcast media will return to normal programming.

This test is an initiative of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Even though the EAS is tested regularly throughout Delaware, on radio and television, it is the first nationwide test conducted with all states participating at the same time.

The season and timing chosen for the test reflects an effort to involve states and communities with as little disruption of regular schedules and routines as possible. In November, the hurricane season is very near closing at the end of the month and, in most years, it is early for winter storms and nor’easters. In spite of this year’s end of October snow storm in many Atlantic states, chances are that calmer, routine seasonal weather will prevail on Nov. 9.

The 2 p.m. EST time will be prior to evening rush hour along the east coast and after morning rush hour in the most western time zone.

DEMA Planner Arthur Paul said, “Our agency has the role of facilitator for the Delaware State Emergency Communications Committee as the Governor’s designated representative during state emergencies. We work with EAS partners all year, and we are very supportive of this nationwide test.”

“In emergency management and the communications industry, we recognize the importance of communication and notification in response to emergencies,” he said. “There may never be an incident that requires the use of the EAS nationwide; however, having that capability is vital to our country’s homeland security.”

When it sounds on Nov. 9, the test will last 30 seconds. According to FEMA, the National-level EAS test will demonstrate a public alert and warning system that would enable the President of the United States to address the American public during an extreme emergency. Similar to local EAS tests that are conducted frequently, the nationwide test will involve the same broadcast radio and television stations, cable television, satellite radio and television services and wireline providers that participate regularly.

FEMA and FCC representatives said that the nationwide event has been two years in planning and it is part of ongoing national preparedness efforts. FEMA, the FCC and other federal partners, along with state, local, tribal and territorial governments, and those who participate in EAS activities have been working toward making this test a reality.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate reminds everyone, “We want you to know this is a test. It’s our opportunity to check to make sure that our systems are working across the country if we have a national emergency. Because of the system design, not all of you will see the crawl that says this is a test. It will say this is an emergency alert, but we want you to understand, this is a test.”

As the federal, state, tribal, territorial and local governments prepare for and test the EAS capabilities, DEMA officials remind you that this event serves as a reminder that everyone should establish an emergency preparedness kit and emergency plan for themselves, their families, communities, and businesses. Anyone can visit www.prepareDE.org, or www.Ready.gov for more information about how to prepare for and stay informed about what to do in the event of an actual emergency.

For additional information, visit FEMA's EAS page or the FCC's EAS Page.

Video with Director Fugate (FEMA): http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/media_records/6407

Video in Spanish: http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/media_records/6408

Video with American Sign Language: http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/media_records/6407

55+ Community CERT Class

On October 14th and 15th, The State Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) Team provided a class for the Bon Ayre 55+ Community in Smyrna.

Twenty Two (22) residents took the course, and now provides a CERT team to their community. The training prepared team members to come together during a disaster to help one another until first responders arrive.

Home Health Care Preparedness Presentations

On September 21st and October 1st, Bob George and Marny McLee (DE Citizen Corps staff) and Dave Hamm (DE Citizen Corps volunteer) gave two separate Disaster Preparedness Presentations to the Home Health Care Comfort Keepers.

Each presentation was held at the Ogletown Baptist Church in Newark, Delaware, with approximately forty members attending each presentation. Gary Mears from the UD Center for Disabilities Studies joined the Citizen Corps Staff on October 1st; taking a few minutes to brief those attending on its mission on the possibility of collaboration between the groups. The point-of-contact for both presentations was Patricia Lentz.

Hospital Preparedness Presentation

On September 27th, the Delaware Citizen Corps staff provided two back-to-back Disaster Preparedness Presentations at the Christiana Care Hospital for Staff Safety Day.

Preparedness materials were also provided for the Wilmington Hospital's Staff Safety Day, held the week before. The point-of-contact for the presentations was Richard Marrow, the new emergency manager for Christiana and Wilmington Hospitals.

DE Citizen Corps Teaches CERT Class for Christian Growth Ministries

On September 16th-17th, The State Community Emergency Response Team taught a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Class to fifteen members of the Christian Growth Ministries in Wilmington.

The point of contact for the class was Arthur Bowers. The Bishop at the ministries is Billy Lane.

FEMA & FCC Unveil New Tip Sheet for Consumers on How to Communicate During Disasters

Today, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission released a new tip sheet to help citizens understand how to better communicate during a disaster. It also includes advice on how to prepare for communications shortcomings before a disaster occurs. From the article:

As part of National Preparedness Month, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today released new tips for consumers aimed at preparing them for major disasters when communications networks are more likely to be compromised or damaged. Nearly one month ago, a 5.8 magnitude earthquake and Hurricane Irene struck the East Coast. In the minutes and hours that followed, mobile networks experienced significant network congestion, temporarily making it harder for millions of people to reach loved ones and emergency services. This tip sheet aims to help prepare Americans about how to communicate with each other, and loved ones, in the event of another disaster.

"Between the East Coast earthquake, Hurricane Irene, Tropical Storm Lee, and wildfires in Texas and California, we have had a lot of powerful reminders lately that disasters can strike anytime, anywhere - and can often make it difficult for the public to communicate with friends, loved ones or emergency personnel," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "An important part of preparing for disasters includes getting ready for potential communications challenges, whether caused by power outages or heavy cell network congestion. These simple tips are easy for anyone to follow and could make a world of difference when it matters the most."

FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said, "When disaster strikes, the ability to communicate is essential. However, power outages and other issues can interfere with the way people ordinarily communicate, making it harder to reach loved ones or emergency services. The FCC is committed to ensuring the public's safety through the reliability of our nation's communications networks. But there are also simple steps that consumers can take to prepare for a disaster as well as practical ways to better communicate during and after an event. I encourage all Americans to become familiar these tips and share them with friends and family."

Read the full article on FEMA.gov.

Help Us Prepare: Point of Distribution Exercise

On Thursday, August 25th, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) will be conducting a Point of Distribution (POD) exercise from 10:30AM until 12:30PM. The exercise will be at the Southern Patrol Headquarters, located on 605 N. Broad Street, Middletown DE.

Volunteers are needed. The first one hundred participants will receive a FREE case of water. See the attached flyer for more information.

Hurricane Irene Nears the U.S. Coast: Are You Ready?

As the first major hurricane of the 2011 hurricane season approaches the U.S. coast, it's more important than ever to ensure that your family or business is prepared.

As Hurricane Irene nears the Florida coast, present projections show there is some possibility our region may be impacted. Check out Ready.gov and PrepareDE.org's preparation guides for this natural disaster. It is essential that families and businesses prepare themselves prior to a storm's impact, as supplies, communications, and routes of transportation may be limited. The NOAA has issued a Hurricane Safety flyer with safety tips for before, during, and after a storm.

For up to date tracking of Hurricane Irene and future hurricanes, the National Hurricane Center maintains an up-to-date website of named storms.

Craig Fugate Visits the Delaware Emergency Management Agency

Craig Fugate, the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), visited Delaware on Friday, August 12th. Director Fugate met with DEMA Director Jamie Turner and his staff. Director Fugate continues to emphasize the importance of citizen and community preparedness. Visit PrepareDE or Ready.gov to learn how to better prepare for a disaster.

Family Emergency Preparedness Day

National Preparedness Month kicks off Thursday, Sept. 1. The Delaware Citizen Corps will sponsor its 7th Annual Family Emergency Preparedness Day at the Agriculture Museum in Dover on Saturday, October 8th, from 10:00AM - 2:00 PM.

The Museum is located on 866 N. DuPont Highway, in Dover. The day will provide residents with FREE FOOD, free training sessions on citizen emergency readiness, writing a plan and building a kit, emergency preparedness for pets, and preparedness games for kids. Exhibitors, such as Citizen Corps, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), the Medical Reserve Corps, Public Health, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and the Red Cross, will distribute materials listing supplies and tips on the key points of a family emergency plan. Local emergency responders, fire trucks, police vehicles, and more will be on hand. Many exhibitors will have interactive displays that all ages can enjoy, and free disaster preparedness/emergency kits will be raffled off.

NOAA Predicts Higher of Named Hurricanes for 2011

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued its updated 2011 Atlantic hurricane season outlook today raising the number of expected named storms from its pre-season outlook issued in May. Forecasters also increased their confidence that 2011 will be an active Atlantic hurricane season. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, updates its Atlantic hurricane season outlook every August. “The atmosphere and Atlantic Ocean are primed for high hurricane activity during August through October,” said Gerry Bell, Ph.D., lead seasonal hurricane forecaster at the Climate Prediction Center. “Storms through October will form more frequently and become more intense than we’ve seen so far this season.”

Key climate factors predicted in May continue to support an active season. These include: the tropical multi-decadal signal, which since 1995 has brought favorable ocean and atmospheric conditions, leading to more active seasons; exceptionally warm Atlantic Ocean temperatures (the third warmest on record); and the possible redevelopment of La Niña. Reduced vertical wind shear and lower air pressure across the tropical Atlantic also favor an active season.

Based on these conditions and on climate model forecasts, the confidence for an above-normal season has increased from 65 percent in May to 85 percent. Also, the expected number of named storms has increased from 12-18 in May to 14-19, and the expected number of hurricanes has increased from 6-10 in May to 7-10.

Across the entire Atlantic Basin for the whole season – June 1 to November 30 – NOAA’s updated seasonal outlook projects, with a 70 percent probability, a total of:

•14 to 19 named storms (top winds of 39 mph or higher), including:

•7 to 10 hurricanes (top winds of 74 mph or higher), of which:

•3 to 5 could be major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of at least 111 mph)

These ranges are indicative of an active season, and extend well above the long-term seasonal averages of 11 named storms, six hurricanes and two major hurricanes.

The Atlantic basin has already produced five tropical storms this season: Arlene, Bret, Cindy, Don and Emily. All eyes this week are on Emily, which continues to develop and move towards the United States.

The last hurricane to make landfall in the United States was Ike in 2008. Last year saw above-normal hurricane activity, but none made landfall in the United States. August through October are peak months of the Atlantic hurricane season, and FEMA urges people not to be lured into a false sense of security by the lack of hurricanes so far this year. "It is still early in this hurricane season and we know it can take only one storm to devastate communities and families," said FEMA Deputy Administrator Rich Serino. "Many disasters come without warning, but that’s not the case with hurricanes. This is hurricane season, if you haven't already, now is the time to take a few simple steps to get you and your family prepared. Anyone can visit www.ready.gov to learn more."

Be prepared for the hurricane season with important information available online at hurricanes.gov/prepare and at FEMA’s ready.gov.

4th Annual Preparedness Night at the Blue Rocks

 On July 14th, DE Citizen Corps, NCC OEM/Citizen Corps and Wilmington EOC/Citizen Corps hosted their 4^th Annual Preparedness Night at the Riverfront Stadium with the Wilmington Blue Rocks Minor League Baseball Team. Minor League Baseball is a National Partner of Citizen Corps. Also sharing the night were partners DEMA, The American Red Cross, DE Medical Reserve Corps and the Public Health Preparedness Section and many volunteers from throughout the state. A Preparedness Sign is posted in the outfield to be viewed all season long, Citizen Corps/Blue Rocks Backpacks were given out to the first 1000 fans, a Disaster Preparedness Kit was given out during each inning, preparedness messages were viewed on the jumbo electric scoreboard, as well as preparedness questions announced throughout the game. It was another great family fun filled night, a lot of fun was shared by the fans as well as the organizations hosting and sharing the event.

2nd CERT Training for DTI

On Jun 8-9, The State Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) Team returned to the Department of Technology and Information (DTI), to teach it’s second class in three weeks.   Twenty members of DTI, DelDOT, The Court of Common Pleas, Crisis Intervention Service, The Attorney General’s Office and the Developmental Disabilities Division attended the two day training held in Dover.   The POC for both classes was Peggy Sue Cole of DTI and the First State Chapter President of the Association of Contingency Planners (ACP).

1st CERT Course for DTI

On May 25-26, The State Community Emergency Response Team taught a CERT Training Course for the Department of Technology and Information (DTI) at their office in Dover. Twenty members from DTI and one each from DELDOT and the State Lottery Office attended the Disaster Preparedness training. The team is scheduled to go back to DTI and teach another course on Jun 8-9, the POC for the training was Peggy Sue Cole.

Fire Suppression Training for YMCA

The State Community Emergency Response Team supported the YMCA of Delaware with a CERT Fire Suppression Module on May 22nd, 2011 at the Western YMCA.  Instructors Justin Kates from DEMA/Christiana Fire Company and Matt Marsella from New Castle County Emergency Service Corps/Minquadale Fire Company provided the classroom and hands-on training.  Kevin Semonelle from the YMCA was the POC for the training.

Del Tech (Terry Campus) CERT Training

On May 6,  Marny McLee, Justin Kates and Ken Brennan of the State Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), assisted DTCC (Terry Campus) with teaching their first CERT Training Class.  Ten Emergency Management and Criminal Justice students completed the training and are now part of the Campus CERT Team.  The Manager for the DTCC Campus CERT Team is Dr. Jeff Peck.

Rehoboth Kiwanis Preparedness Presentation

On May 4 Bob George and Marny McLee of Delaware Citizen Corps gave a Disaster Preparedness Presentation to the Rehoboth Kiwanis Club at the Rehoboth Beach Country Club. Ten members attended their weekly luncheon meeting in which a new member was sworn in. Bob and Marny were presented a Certificate of Appreciation from Kiwanis President James Kunkle for their efforts in preparing the club and Delawareans. The POC for the presentation was Joe Brake.

Preparedness Night in Millville

Citizen Corps and DEMA were again invited to join The Town of Millville and its Volunteers as they put on their annual Preparedness Night at the Millville Fire Hall. Bob George Citizen Corps Program Manager introduced the Preparedness DVD and answered questions along with Rosanne Pack, DEMA PIO, after the crowd of approximately 100 viewed it. One Guest speaker was Chief Ken McLaughlin of the Ocean View Police Department and POC of the first Citizen Corps Council/Volunteer in Police Service (VIPS) in Delaware.

Rosanne Pack also manned a display table with Don Minnich, Citizen Corps Volunteer as well as Marny McLee and Justin Kates of Citizen Corps. The POC for the event was Doc Flick, the Manager of the Millville Volunteers is Steve Micciche.

Chinese Community Fire Suppression

Delaware Citizen Corps returned to the Chinese American Community Club in Hockessin to teach the Fire Suppression Block of instruction from the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training Course. Justin Kates of Citizen Corps and Volunteer Firefighter of Christiana Fire Company taught the inside portion, he received help outside with the practical hands on training from Kevin Semonelle also a Volunteer Firefighter from Christiana. Just as last time the classroom presentation had to be translated through a Chinese interpreter (Dr. Lin), approximately 70 members of the group attended the weekly meeting, the POC for the training was Johanna Shay.

PREPAREDNESS BILLBOARD CAMPAIGN

Citizen Corps launched its PrepareDE.org campaign on March 7th, which will run through August.  Billboards will be located throughout Delaware in all three counties to announce the Preparedness website.  Citizens can go to site to find preparedness materials and information that will help aide them during an emergency or an all hazards disaster. Part two of the campaign to start in June will also add the 911 Special Needs Registry.

Kiwanis Preparedness Presentation

Delaware Citizen Corps gave a Disaster Preparedness Presentation to the Seaford Kiwanis Club at their monthly meeting.  Twenty Five members attended the presentation held at the Manor House in Seaford.  The POC’s for the presentation was Jim Thompson and Mrs Rose Poole, who took the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training with the Dover District AME Churches.

Spring Showers or Spring Flooding?

Flooding is a coast to coast threat to Delawareans during all months of the year.  Anywhere it rains, it can flood.  This week, 26 States are reporting flooding and flash flooding, with flood watches and warnings currently in effect throughout the Eastern and Southern United States, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Midwestern states are especially susceptible to snow melt and ice jam that cause spring flooding, but states in every region of the country are at risk.  Floodsmart.gov defines a flood as a general and temporary condition where two or more acres of normally dry land or two or more properties are inundated by water or mudflow. 

The 14th through 18th of March is National Flood Safety Awareness Week.  Its purpose is to highlight some of the many ways floods can occur, the hazards associated with floods, and what can be done to safe life and property.  “It is important to be prepared for flooding regardless of location, but particularly if situated in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam.”

The following resources are available to promote flooding awareness and preparedness to enhance personnel safety:

·         The Ready Campaign

·         National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Flood Safety  

·         FEMA’s FloodSmart Program

·         FEMA’s Flood Preparedness

·         Flood Insurance  

  

Clayton-Smyrna CERT Presentation

Delaware Citizen Corps gave a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Preparedness Presentation at the St. Polycarp Church in Smyrna. Over 40 people attended the presentation which was hosted by the Clayton Knights of Columbus.  Also invited were the Towns of Clayton and Smyrna to attend this monthly meeting.  The POC for the presentation was Jack Dungee. Plans in the future include a possible partnership between the two towns to host a CERT Class.

Disaster Preparedness Presentation for Early Head Start

On January 31 – DE Citizen Corps gave a Disaster Preparedness Presentation for the New Directions Early Head Start Program at the University Of Delaware. Twenty staff members of New Directions and three members of the UD Center for Disabilities Studies were present. This is the first of future presentations for early Head Start, Citizen Corps is also working on a new project with the UD Center for Disabilities Studies in addition to one from last year. Cindy Genau is the POC for New Directions and Phyllis Guinivan is the POC for the UD Center for Disabilities Studies.

Disaster Preparedness Workshop

On Jan 22, Citizen Corps provided a Disaster Preparedness Workshop to the New Hope Recreation and Development Center in Ellendale, Sussex County.  Twenty people attended the workshop which focused on Family Emergency Planning. Their mission and focus is providing educational opportunities to at risk youth through after school programs.  Some of the programs provided are help with home work, one on one tutoring with special emphasis on math and reading, lecturers that provide instruction on bullying, healthy eating, science, read a long and tobacco abstention programs.  They are also expanding their offerings to include Adult Programs that will involve Adult Computer Training, Red Cross -CPR Training, Health Awareness, Financial Planning and Emergency Preparedness. The POC and Director of the Center is Mr Kendal Tyer.