Emergency Sirens Test on April 2 and Potassium Iodide Event on April 4 in Middletown

For those who live or work within 10 miles of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Stations

To check whether you are within the Emergency Planning Zone, or EPZ, visit de.gov/epz

SMYRNA, Del. — The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), the Delaware State Police, and Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PSEG), will conduct a quarterly test of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations Alert and Notification system on Tuesday, April 2, at 7:20 p.m.

There are 37 sirens in Delaware located within a 10-mile radius of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations in New Jersey. The sirens cover an area north from Delaware City, west to Middletown, and south to Woodland Beach. This test is part of an ongoing program that continually monitors the integrity of the siren system. Sirens will be activated for three to five minutes, followed by a test message of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on local radio stations. Sirens tested are the same ones used to alert the public in the event of an actual emergency at either the Salem or Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations.

In the event of an actual emergency, there would be a series of steady three (3) to five (5) minute siren sounds that would alert citizens to turn their radio to an Emergency Alert System (EAS) station for critical emergency information or instructions.

If there are any questions, please call the Delaware Emergency Management Agency at 1-877-SAY-DEMA (1-877-729-3362) or (302) 659-3362 and ask for Georgina Harris-Sharper or Albert Samah. To learn more about radiological preparedness, visit PrepareDE.org.

KI Distribution 4.4.24

 

Potassium Iodide (KI) Distribution Event on April 4 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) and Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) will distribute free potassium iodide (KI) tablets to Delaware residents living within a 10-mile radius (also known as the Emergency Planning Zone or EPZ) of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations. The free tablets will be distributed on Thursday, April 4, between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. at the Volunteer Hose Co. of Middletown, 27 W. Green Street, Middletown, Delaware.

KI is available to residents who have received it previously and whose tablets have reached their expiration date, as well as those who never received tablets before. Individuals with home or business addresses within the EPZ are eligible to receive the KI tablets. Recipients must bring a photo ID such as a driver’s license, proof of residency such as a utility bill, or proof of employment within the EPZ when they go to the Middletown Fire Hall—this is the only requirement to receive KI tablets. Residents who have KI that is expired can bring those tablets to the distribution center to exchange for new ones.

KI does not protect against external radiation but can help protect the thyroid gland from ingested or inhaled radioactive iodine that might be released in a radiation emergency. KI is one of the protective measures outlined in Delaware’s emergency plans developed for use in a nuclear incident. The State of Delaware receives the tablets through a program initiated by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

Delaware residents living outside of the 10-mile EPZ who would like to obtain KI tablets should contact their pharmacist. KI is also available over the counter at some local pharmacies.

The 10-mile EPZ in Delaware is comprised of four Emergency Response Planning Areas (ERPAs):

  • ERPA A: Port Penn, Odessa, East of Townsend, North Smyrna, and South St. George’s Areas
  • ERPA B: Middletown, East of Townsend, and North Smyrna Areas.
  • ERPA C: Delaware City, North Middletown, St. George’s, and Reybold Areas.
  • ERPA D: The Delaware River and Bay.

For additional information regarding the potassium iodide distribution program in Delaware, call the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) section at 302-659-3362. More information and resources can be found at PrepareDE.org

RESOURCES AND INFORMATION:

2023-2024 Emergency Plan Information for NJ and DE (PSEG Calendar) with up-to-date info and resources.

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ABOUT DEMA

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is the lead state agency for coordination of comprehensive emergency preparedness, training, response, recovery, and mitigation services to save lives, protect Delaware’s economic base and reduce the impact of emergencies. DEMA is a division within the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS) and authorized by Delaware Code.

Social Media: Delaware Emergency Management Agency on Facebook and X and Instagram

 


The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner released additional sections of the informal draft regulations for review.

The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) has released additional sections of the informal draft regulations for review. The sections of draft regulations released today include the sections related to testing, sampling, waste, disposal, appeals, variances, and fee schedules.

The Informal Comment Period on the OMC website omc.delaware.gov will close on March 29, 2024. Once this informal feedback has been collected, considered, and appropriate revisions are made in response to the feedback, the OMC will begin the formal rulemaking process.

Pursuant to the Administrative Procedures Act, Chapter 101 of Title 29, the OMC shall file notice and text of proposed regulation with the Registrar for publication in the Register of Regulations.

OMC continues to encourage stakeholders and members of the public to review these preliminary, draft regulations in the informal process, as well as the officially proposed regulations when published later in the Register of Regulations.

 


Severe Weather Awareness Week March 11-15, 2024

Governor John Carney and Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long have proclaimed March 11 to March 15 as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Delaware. In recent years, Delaware has experienced flooding, tornadoes, and coastal storms that put lives and property at risk and adversely impact the health, safety, and economic well-being of families, businesses, and schools. Learning about the different types of hazards can increase preparedness and reduce the devastation caused by severe weather.

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is joining with the National Weather Service in Philadelphia/Mount Holly, NJ, the Center for Environmental Monitoring and Analysis (CEMA) at the University of Delaware, and Delaware Sea Grant to raise awareness. Flooding, coastal storms, tornadoes, and lightning are just some of the weather threats that can occur in Delaware, often with little warning. The National Weather Service is hosting a “Severe Weather Awareness Week” webpage with many informative resources and links to NOAA’s Weather-Ready Nation website. Tips on making a family plan, building a preparedness kit, and staying informed can be found at PrepareDE.org.

Delaware Emergency Management Agency Director A.J. Schall said, “Preparing for severe weather is important because it can reduce the risks of injury, death, and property damage. These weather events are becoming more frequent and intense. You can protect yourself and your loved ones by being informed, alert, and ready.”

Residents are urged to follow along on DEMA’s social media accounts for a different weather hazard each day, providing historical context as well as links to valuable information on how to keep your family safe.

Delaware Severe Weather Awareness Week is a reminder that Delaware has been hit with many major weather events within the past four years. Record rainfall from the remnants of Hurricane Ida in 2021 caused historic flooding in parts of downtown Wilmington, Tropical Storm Isaias in 2020 spawned the longest tornado ever recorded in Delaware, which wreaked a path of destruction as it traveled from Dover in Kent County to Glasgow in New Castle County. This year also marks almost one year since a tragic tornado fatality occurred on April 1, 2023 in Sussex County. It was the first tornado-related death since two people were killed near a mobile home community near Hartly on July 21, 1983.

Nationally, NOAA reports that 2023 was the most historic and costly year on record for disasters. There were 28 weather and climate disasters in 2023 – surpassing the previous record of 22 in 2020 – causing at least $92.9 billion in damages. Experts believe extreme weather is increasing due to climate change while studies suggest that the human cost of climate-related disasters is acutely undercounted. A U.S. Census Bureau report estimated at least 2.5 million people were displaced by weather disasters in 2023. The University of Delaware Disaster Research Center – now celebrating its 60th anniversary – found disasters disproportionately affect low-income groups while widening existing inequities.

According to Kevin R. Brinson, Associate State Climatologist at the University of Delaware Center for Environmental Monitoring and Analysis (CEMA), average temperatures are generally increasing and precipitation is also getting more extreme. The intensity of tropical systems is also increasing as sea surface temperatures increase. Sea levels are definitely rising and the rate of rise could accelerate during the 21st century if large ice sheets continue melting in Greenland and Antarctica. Data shows that, on average coastal storms occur most often during March, but also are more likely in other months, such as May, August, September, and December. To check out Delaware climate records, visit the Delaware Climate Office Website. Scientists say it’s possible that climate extremes may become more common in future decades, particularly heat-related ones. Which is why being prepared for extreme weather is more important than ever:

“Our weather isn’t getting less extreme, so preparing for the next storm also prepares us for future extreme events,” Brinson said.

Insurance Check up

Flooding

Flooding is the most frequent and expensive natural disaster in Delaware and the USA and it can also be deadly. Over a 30-year period, flooding caused more fatalities on average than every other weather event except excessive heat. When a flood is imminent or occurring, the top priority should be the physical safety of family members and pets. Monitor local news and weather reports and sign up for emergency alerts. Have a communication plan ready in the event of a power outage. The best way to protect your home and belongings from flood damage is to buy and maintain home insurance and purchase flood insurance – don’t let your hard work and your family’s future be washed away. Experts recommend the following steps to prepare for a flood:

  • Buy and maintain home insurance and get a regular insurance checkup
  • Get information on flood insurance at FloodSmart.gov
  • Find out your flood risk at the DNREC Flood Planning Tool Website
  • Take a household inventory with photos and store important documents

Delaware Sea Grant is partnering with other agencies to host the “2024 Flood Insurance Forum: Fact vs. Fiction? Everything You Need to Know About Flood Risks and Insurance” on April 3, 2024 (in person and virtual) at the Lewes Public Library, from 9 to 11 a.m. For more information, contact Danielle Swallow at dswallow@udel.edu The public can register at www.deseagrant.org/flood-forum

Tornadoes

Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris. Tornadoes are not common in Delaware; however, when they do occur, they can cause serious property damage and threaten human lives. Tornadoes can occur anytime and anywhere, look like funnels and bring intense winds up to 200 miles per hour. Experts recommend the following steps to prepare:

  • Because tornadoes come with little or no warning, you should know the signs of a tornado: including a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar like a freight train.
  • Sign up for Delaware’s Emergency Notification System at de.gov/dens, download the FEMA mobile app, and enable local alerts for your area. Always follow the advice of state and local officials.
  • If your area is under a tornado warning, go to a safe shelter immediately, such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar or a small interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
  • Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
  • Do not go under an overpass or bridge. You’re safer in a low, flat location.
  • Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.
  • Use your arms to protect your head and neck.If you can’t stay at home, make plans to go to a public shelter.

Find DEMA on Social Media: Facebook, X, Instagram, Youtube, Nextdoor

 


The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) has released additional sections of the informal draft regulations.

The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) has released additional sections of the informal draft regulations for review. The sections of draft regulations released today include the sections related to tracking, product health standards, packaging and labeling requirements, and advertising.

The Informal Comment Period on the OMC website omc.delaware.gov will close on March 29, 2024. Once this informal feedback has been collected, considered, and appropriate revisions are made in response to the feedback, the OMC will begin the formal rulemaking process.

Pursuant to the Administrative Procedures Act, Chapter 101 of Title 29, the OMC shall file notice and text of proposed regulation with the Registrar for publication in the Register of Regulations.

OMC continues to encourage stakeholders and members of the public to review these preliminary, draft regulations in the informal process, as well as the officially proposed regulations when published later in the Register of Regulations

 


Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) is accepting public comment for Informal Regulation Review until March 29

The Office of Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) is inviting stakeholders and interested parties to review and comment on the regulations that will control the State regulated adult-use recreational marijuana industry in Delaware.

As you are aware, the Delaware Marijuana Control Act, 4Del. C. Chapter 13 legalized the use of recreational marijuana for individuals 21 and older. The newly created OMC has the responsibility to adopt rules and regulations necessary for the implementation of this law.

As the OMC moves forward with developing its rules and regulations, we are offering the public an early, informal opportunity to review and comment on the elements of the regulations as individual sections are posted weekly on our website beginning in February 2024. It is our hope that this early engagement with the community and stakeholders will enhance transparency and foster a shared commitment to the OMC’s goals.

This informal public comment period is effective from the date of this announcement until its closing on March 29, 2024. During this informal process, OMC will release draft chapters of the regulations at the website omc.delaware.gov and interested parties will have access to a link to provide constructive comments and feedback.

It is important to note that these preliminary, draft regulations are dependent on proposed legislative changes currently under consideration by members of the General Assembly, and the regulations may have to be adjusted based on legislative action. The draft regulations presented in this informal process are a preview of the direction that the OMC is taking in the development of the formal regulations.

Once this informal feedback has been collected, considered, and appropriate revisions are made in response to that feedback, the OMC will begin the formal rulemaking process. Pursuant to the Administrative Procedures Act, Chapter 101 of Title 29, the OMC shall file notice and text of proposed regulation with the Registrar for publication in the Register of Regulations. The publication of official proposed regulations is the start of the formal public comment period. OMC will announce the timing of this formal public comment period and provide key dates on the website as details become available. The target date for the formal public comment period in the Register of Regulations is May 1 through May 31, 2024.

The sections of draft regulations released today include those applicable to the licensing of adult-use recreational marijuana businesses, the application process, the issuance of licenses, and the processes regarding the renewal and transfer of licenses.

OMC encourages stakeholders and members of the public to review these preliminary, draft regulations in the informal process, as well as the officially proposed regulations when published later in the Register of Regulations.