EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Random Thoughts & Points To Ponder - Summer 2021 DTVAC Receives Grant for

EMERGENCY MGMT.

Random Thoughts And Points To Ponder - Summer 2021

I don't know about you, but as we seem to be coming out of full ”pandemic” mode and preparing to return(hopefully) to a somewhat normal existence, I find myself overloaded with many issues to be decided and thoughts on going forward in an uncertain future. As I consider all of these on a personal and professional level I have to force myself to keep in mind that all of us -even here in sleepy little Delaware Township will likely have to adjust to a new “normal” and consider all that will encompass. At the same time there are certain “constants” for our vulnerabilities and capabilities to respond to the impact of events that will not change completely – but certainly be affected. With that in mind I thought I would share a variety of random thoughts and points for you to ponder, in no particular order and not necessarily connected – but in my opinion still of value to you as a resident.

With vaccinations complete, cases declining and the easing of restrictions, the new Deputy Coordinator and myself are moving forward on the required revision to the Township Emergency Operations Plan for review and promulgation by the Board of Supervisors. Originally due last year 2020 the Covid-19 virus limited our ability to achieve that, while we focused on response and Continuity of Government. We hope to have this Basic Plan ready to go by the middle of June and then will turn our attention to required revisions to position based operational checklist and comprehensive resource/ notification listings for critical/ vulnerable entities in the Township. The challenge in this development remains that there are way more functional areas that need to be addressed in any disaster and not nearly enough local resources to fill those tasks as required by Federal and State guidance. For example: the Delaware Township Fire Company is currently responsible for approximately 5 of 15 required functional areas in the plan. The volunteer ambulance corps is tasked with 2-3, the town road department with 3, the township administrative staff with 3. and as we all know personnel are limited at best and the ability to accomplish several tactical objectives at once can be a struggle

Priority will always be to deliver limited township resources where they can do the most good for the most people- while awaiting assistance for “unmet needs” from higher authorities or agencies.

If you want to know or learn about how we establish these priorities, please consider completing the FEMA independent study course IS700 Introduction to the National Incident Management System online. Then volunteer in some capacity – it does not have to be with the fire company or ambulance-- people in all disciplines are needed.

During any emergency declaration, private communities/developments should do their best to coordinate their activities and situational needs with the township. Having accurate information on Points of Contact and authority on file in the plan enhances effectiveness. The same is equally true for businesses, churches, camps, etc. so when we reach out in the coming weeks to update records -please provide accurate information.

The seasons are changing again, and as the saying goes that I learned when I first moved here over 30 years ago- Pennsylvania has passed from winter to “Construction”. Be aware of the ongoing and upcoming road maintenance projects. Plan for delays, learn alternate routes, SLOW DOWN in construction areas and be on the lookout for “flaggers” and restrictions. The life you save may be your own. Lots of wildlife and motorcycles again too- be alert and aware!

We know full time population has increased (not sure how much yet)- understand that this translates to increased traffic and possibly persons with less knowledge of roads. Drive defensively.

Especially as the pandemic ends and with the change in neighborhoods be aware of more kids outside and on community roadways

Wondering how many people took my suggestion in the last newsletter and completed either of the 2 FEMA independent study classes I referenced IS324a- Hurricane Preparedness or IS909- Community Preparedness? Here is another suggestion – IS 394a- Protecting Your Home and Business in Disaster.

An educated citizen is a prepared citizen- and a prepared citizen is less likely to be completely overwhelmed in significant events. What is your plan? How will your family communicate if separated? Power outages and significant storms occur as much in the summer months as the winter- maybe even more often depending on the weather pattern.

With the resumption of normal activities with little or no social distancing, reestablish your “situational awareness” at group events. Recent events have shown that no community or location is immune for active shooter or acts of violence. Adopt the same posture when shopping. An unfortunate fact of life in today's world.

Always ask yourself “what if?” Reach out to reliable sources and knowledgeable people if you cannot come up with an answer.

After what we have all been through the past 14 months, stay positive about the ability to face any other challenges nature, technology or man bring forth. It may not seem like it but many small and large successes in the pandemic were the result of frameworks and plans developed specifically in advance of events like this. Based on historical analysis and a “Common Operating Picture”. Across the past year my ears have been ringing with the constant motto “we're all in this together”, so as we come out of this it may be good to keep that ingrained in your mind for the next power outage, hurricane, food, winter storm and remember that if you could wear a mask everywhere among family, friends and strangers on the pretext of protecting them-- be in it together when the storm damages your neighbor’s home or the power goes out – especially with so many new residents who may be unfamiliar with that experience here. I will close this time with 2 quotes from one of my favorite coaches and leaders of all time the great John Wooden- teacher and humanitarian. From the day I read these many years into my volunteer career they have helped guide and inspire me to keep serving. Until the fall, stay safe!

“Your greatest joy definitely comes from doing something for another, especially when it was done with no thought of something in return.”

“You can’t live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.”