June 1st marks the beginning of the 2013 Atlantic Hurricane Season

Wilmington, DE, May 31, 2013 — Saturday, June 1, 2013 will mark the beginning of the 2013 Atlantic Hurricane Season.  Last October, the Delmarva Peninsula witnessed the effects of a powerful storm firsthand when Superstorm Sandy came up the Eastern Seaboard and made landfall in our area on October 29, 2012. 

The American Red Cross wants the entire community to be prepared for any and all storms that may threaten this year and urges families to take steps now to ensure their safety.  There are three actions everyone can take to prepare for a disaster such as a hurricane:

Get a Kit

Build a kit of emergency supplies and store them in a container that you can take with you should you need to evacuate.  For a complete list of suggested items, visit www.redcross.org/prepare.

Make a Plan

Identify two meeting places for your family members should a disaster occur.  Assign a place right outside your home and assign a second meeting place outside of your neighborhood in the event you need to evacuate.

Be Informed

Become aware of the various disasters or emergencies that may occur in your area.  In the event of a summer storm, tropical storm, hurricane or other weather-related disasters, listen to weather advisories and follow the instructions of local authorities.

“Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane.  We encourage everyone to get trained and learn how to prepare your families, your employees, your neighbors, and yourselves.  Knowing what to do in the face of an emergency can make a world of difference.” –Patrick Delaney, Regional Executive, American Red Cross Delmarva Region

Governor Markell also urges residents to prepare.  “We have learned that hurricane threats in Delaware can be very real,” said Governor Jack Markell.  “The best we can do is to prepare as much as possible.   The Red Cross is a valuable resource ready and willing to help families plan in advance, which increases everyone’s chances of staying safe in a storm.   

“Take care of your neighbors.  Before and after the storm, look in on neighbors, especially the elderly or homebound in your community,” said Jamie Turner, Director, Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA).

“Last year, Hurricane Sandy provided us all with a stark reminder of the importance of preparing for natural disasters. As we quickly come upon hurricane season this year, it is vital that all Delawareans know the threats associated with living in a coastal state and understand how to keep their families and homes safe in the event of a hurricane,” said Sen. Carper. “A little bit of prevention can go a long way toward avoiding serious damage to homes or property and can even save the lives of our loved ones. I hope all Delawareans will use the resources provided by the Red Cross and take the time to create a plan and prepare for hurricane season.”

“It is most important that our citizens make time now to prepare their families and businesses for the unexpected. Preparation and keeping well informed is the key to providing for the safety of our families and neighbors during weather events,” Delaware Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Lewis D. Schiliro said.