Coastal Towns, Delaware Sea Grant & UD to Host Emergency Preparedness Workshop

Adults over the age of 55, their families and caretakers are invited to “Ready or Not,” a special emergency preparedness workshop at 9:30 am on Thursday, September 5^th at the Roxana Fire Station, located at 35943 Zion Church Rd, Frankford, DE 19945.

The Towns of South Bethany, Fenwick Island, and Selbyville; together with Delaware Sea Grant and the Institute for Public Administration at the University of Delaware, are hosting this informative event to share practical tips and strategies for weathering severe storms and other disasters.

Older adults and people with disabilities are disproportionately impacted by extreme weather and other emergencies. Research shows that this population is slower to recover. Taking steps now to prepare for emergencies can promote aging in place and community resilience.

“Emergency Preparedness is especially important in coastal Delaware, where thirty percent of the population of Sussex County is projected to be over the age of 65 by 2030 – and many of these individuals live at or near the coast,” says Danielle Swallow, coastal hazards specialist for Delaware Sea Grant. “Delaware has the lowest lying land elevation of all U.S. states, and is extremely vulnerable to flooding. Yet many residents and visitors have a limited understanding of their risks, and the steps they can take to manage these risks.”

During the workshop, participants will receive training on evacuation routes and shelters, emergency supply kits, and managing health and mobility issues. Attendees will have an opportunity to complete an emergency health communications card and register in the national Smart 911 emergency notification system. In addition, several emergency responders, healthcare providers, agencies, and businesses will exhibit information on the services available to older adults before, during, or after emergency events.

For more information and to register for the event, please visit: https://www.deseagrant.org/events-all/ready-or-not or call Danielle Swallow, Delaware Sea Grant, at 302-645-4258.