During extreme weather events, like the plunging temperatures with severe windchill factors and liklihood of power outages expected Friday, Dec. 23, Delaware County Emergency Services urges residents to prepare for sheltering in place for up to 10 days, said Director Steve Hood.
Individuals experiencing long-term electrical outages affecting heat should contact Delaware County Social Services at 607-832-5300 or Delaware Opportunities at 607-746-1600, Hood advised. Individuals should also reach out to friends or family if shelter is needed, he added.
If large numbers of electrical outages are detected and restore times are extended, Hood said, the county will initiate its emergency operations center to organize shelters in collaboration with the Southern Tier American Red Cross. “Opening a shelter is a big deal, and puts lots of things in motion,” he said. A shelter needs staffing, housing for pets, food, medical equipment, and other things, Hood added.
Hood directs residents to New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, where information on emergency preparedness, safety, and prevention can be viewed.
Southern Tier American Red Cross representatives did not respond to requests for comment before press time.
