(Photo: MGN)DOVER, Del.- The Delaware National Guard said Friday that it is tracking Hurricane Sandy and planning to support residents should the storm impact the state.
Typical support is evacuation, shelter, medical support and controlling access to evacuated neighborhoods and homes.
"Homeland Defense and support during natural and man-made disasters are core competencies of the National Guard," said Maj. Gen. Frank Vavala, adjutant general of the Delaware National Guard. "We are leaning forward to help protect the lives and property of the citizens of Delaware."
For the past few days the Delaware National Guard said it has been coordinating with the Governor's office, Delaware Emergency Management Agency and first responders from each county in the state.
Starting this weekend, the Delaware National Guard's joint operations center will be manned 24/7. This will allow coordination of a surge of personnel and equipment if needed later in the week.
The Delaware National Guard will continue to participate in daily "bridge" calls with the state to monitor the situation. Manpower and equipment will be prepositioned as needed and support coordinated through the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, Guard officials said.
In the past, the Delaware National Guard said it has used military vehicles to evacuate Delawareans to safety and worked with the Red Cross to set up shelters for those in need. The Guard also is able to provide potable water in times of emergency.
"We have ample vehicles, equipment and troops to help protect our citizens," Vavala said. However, he added that should something catastrophic occur, the Delaware National Guard also has access to resources from other National Guards through the Emergency Management Agency Compact.
