New Castle County Emergency Management and Citizen Corps

08/12/2026

Exploring local trails is a great way to enjoy the outdoors — but preparation is key to a safe hike.

✔️ Plan Ahead
-Research the trail and its surrounding area in advance, especially if traveling from out of town.
-Check the weather forecast before you go.
-Choose a trail that matches your experience level.
-Share your plans and expected return time with someone.

✔️ Dress Smart
-Wear sturdy footwear.
-Dress in layers and light-colored clothing.
-Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.

✔️ Pack the Essentials
-Plenty of water and high-energy snacks.
-A trail map or GPS.
-Sunscreen, flashlight, insect repellent, and a basic first aid kit.
-A fully charged phone.

✔️ Stay Safe on the Trail
-Stay on marked paths.
-Be aware of wildlife and changing weather conditions.
-Turn around if you feel fatigued or if weather conditions worsen.

08/07/2026

08/03/2026

Hot, dry weather increases the risk of fires across the county. Whether you’re camping, grilling, or celebrating, take these steps to prevent accidental fires:

🌾 Wildfire Prevention
-Follow all local burn bans and restrictions.
-Avoid parking vehicles on dry grass.
-Properly discard ci******es — never toss them on the ground.
-Report smoke or fire immediately.

🏕️ Campfire Safety
-Use designated fire rings only.
-Keep fires small and never leave them unattended.
-Keep water or dirt nearby to extinguish flames.
-Drown, stir, and feel — make sure ashes are completely cool before leaving.

🍔 Grill Safety
-Place grills away from homes, decks, and dry vegetation.
-Never leave cooking unattended.
-Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

🎆 Fireworks Safety
-Attend public displays when possible.
-Keep water nearby if using legal consumer fireworks.
-Never relight malfunctioning fireworks.
-Soak all used fireworks in water before disposal.

08/03/2026

Thank you to our Summer 2026 CERT students! We look forward to seeing you at the Basic Life Support (BLS)/CPR Advanced Training Course!

💭 What is CERT? 💭
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program equips volunteers with the skills needed to assist during emergencies and disasters. Training covers fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue, and team coordination. Whether supporting first responders or helping neighbors in a crisis, CERT members play a vital role when it matters most.

To learn more or to register for a future session, please visit: https://www.newcastlede.gov/158/Community-Emergency-Response-Team

07/30/2026

Roadwork crews are out improving infrastructure for everyone, and everyone plays a role in keeping them safe. A few extra seconds of caution can prevent a serious crash, so drive carefully, stay alert, and help keep our work zones safe this summer.

🔶 Slow Down!
Speed limits are reduced in work zones for a reason. Slowing down protects workers and fellow drivers.

🔶 Stay Focused!
Put the phone away and eliminate distractions. Work zones can cause abrupt changes in traffic patterns.

🔶 Follow Signs & Flaggers!
Obey posted signs and directions from flaggers. They are there to guide traffic through the area as safely and efficiently as possible.

🔶 Give Space!
Maintain extra following distance and be prepared for sudden stops or lane shifts.

07/28/2026

⚠️ ATTENTION – FALSE TORNADO PHOTO CIRCULATING

We are aware of a photo circulating on social media that claims to show a tornado on the ground in the Pike Creek area.

The photo is fake and is not from today’s storm.

While portions of New Castle County were under a Tornado Warning this evening, we have received no official reports of a tornado touchdown in the county.

Fortunately, we are also seeing very little storm damage reported throughout New Castle County at this time.

Please be cautious when sharing storm photos and information on social media. During severe weather, rely on official and trusted sources for verified information.

Thank you to everyone who took the warning seriously and moved to a safe location when it was issued.

07/24/2026

ATTENTION CERT STUDENTS – IMPORTANT CLASS UPDATE

CERT students scheduled for Saturday, July 25: Please check your email for an important change to tomorrow’s class.

Tomorrow’s training has been changed from in-person to VIRTUAL. You will need to complete the virtual training before the start of the hands-on portion next Saturday.

📅 Saturday, August 1: We will return IN PERSON for the hands-on portion of the course at the Delaware State Fire School – New Castle Division.

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate everyone’s flexibility. Please check your email for instructions and additional details regarding the virtual training.

For questions or issues accessing the virtual learning platform contact [email protected]

07/23/2026

DPH is reporting two additional positive measles cases, totaling four in the state.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines a measles outbreak as three or more cases of measles that are connected by time and location.

Extensive contact tracing is ongoing to identify anyone exposed to the individuals who tested positive. DPH will notify people who were identified as exposed to confirm whether they have been vaccinated against measles, provide educational resources, and to recommend treatment when necessary. More information will be forthcoming if contact tracing reveals any known public exposures.

The measles cases identified to date are unvaccinated adult males in Kent County. DPH is unable to provide more details about the individuals who tested positive at this time due to medical privacy restrictions.

People who are unvaccinated, pregnant, immunocompromised, or too young to be vaccinated face the highest risk of severe complications during a measles outbreak. Pregnant persons, immunocompromised persons, or children less than 6 months old who have come into contact with someone suspected to have measles, should immediately contact their primary care provider or Delawares Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology at 302-744-4990 for guidance.

Unvaccinated individuals or those unsure of their vaccination status who get exposed to a person with measles should contact their primary care provider or a public health clinic to obtain an MMR vaccine.

Generally, anyone showing any symptoms of measles should seek immediate health care by contacting their primary care provider. If symptoms are severe, they should seek immediate care at the nearest emergency department. Prior to going to any health care facility, the individual should notify providers and medical transport that they or their child were exposed to measles. If you do not have a provider, contact a public health clinic.

More information at https://tinyurl.com/2s37ykkw and de.gov/measles

07/22/2026

🚑 LAST CHANCE FOR CERT TRAINING BEGINNING THIS SATURDAY – Don’t miss your chance to get involved! Remember, these opportunities are FREE, but you must register in advance! 🚑

📅 Basic CERT Training (2-Day Course):
• July 25 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Gilliam Building
• August 1 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Delaware State Fire School (DSFS)

📅 Optional Advanced Training – BLS/CPR:
• September 12 | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Gilliam Building

REGISTER HERE: https://forms.office.com/g/Bnap88V9VN

These sessions complete our planned 4 trainings for the year, helping us reach our goal of building a stronger, more prepared community!

💭 What is CERT? 💭

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program equips volunteers with the skills needed to assist during emergencies and disasters. Training covers fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue, and team coordination. Whether supporting first responders or helping neighbors in a crisis, CERT members play a vital role when it matters most