Sussex County emergency officials promote readiness for National Preparedness Month

Georgetown, Del. (4 p.m. Wed., Sept. 3, 2025): There's no time like the present to prepare for whatever the future might hold.

September is National Preparedness Month, and Sussex County Emergency Management reminds the public, as the calendar moves to fall, that preparation is key to potentially saving property - and lives - should disaster strike in any season.

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, bottled water, first aid kit, flashlight and batteries, portable weather radio, non-perishable food, can opener, medication bottles, and waterproof document sleeve, among other would-be necessities that would be indispensable ahead of and during an emergency.

The kits are on display at the Greenwood, Milton, and South Coastal (Bethany Beach) libraries, as well as on the Emergency Management division's website.

"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 said even in the digital age, local libraries remain a critical community resource to impart knowledge, and 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.

For more information on making a kit and taking other steps to prepare hazards, visit https://sussexcountyde.gov/emergency-preparedness.

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