Schuyler County Attorney Steven J. Getman is reminding residents that September is National Preparedness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preparing for emergencies and disasters. This annual campaign, sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), encourages individuals, families, and communities to take proactive steps to ensure safety and resilience in the face of unexpected crises.
“Emergencies can strike without warning, whether it’s a severe storm, flood, or other disaster,” said Getman. “National Preparedness Month is an opportunity for Schuyler County residents to plan ahead, build resilience, and ensure they are ready to respond effectively. Preparedness starts at home, and by taking small steps now, we can protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our community.”
The goals of National
Preparedness Month are to encourage residents to:
- Understand Risks: Learn about potential emergencies,
such as winter storms, floods, or wildfires, that could impact Schuyler
County.
- Make a Plan: Develop a family emergency plan to
ensure everyone knows what to do and where to go in a crisis.
- Build a Kit: Assemble an emergency supply kit with
essentials like food, water, and medical supplies to sustain households
during an emergency.
- Get Involved: Stay informed and participate in
community preparedness efforts to strengthen local resilience.
Getman offered the following practical tips to help residents prepare:
- Create an Emergency Plan: Discuss with family members
how to communicate and reunite if separated during an emergency. Identify
a safe meeting place and ensure everyone knows evacuation routes.
- Build an Emergency Kit: Stock a “go-bag” with at
least three days’ worth of water, non-perishable food, medications,
flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies. Include important
documents like identification and insurance papers.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for emergency alerts at https://alert.ny.gov/ to
receive real-time notifications about local emergencies, public notices,
and safety updates.
- Learn Lifesaving Skills: Take free classes, such as
CPR or Stop the Bleed, offered through local organizations to be ready to
assist in a crisis.
- Prepare for Specific Needs: Account for the unique
needs of children, seniors, individuals with disabilities, or pets when
planning and assembling supplies.
According to Getman, Schuyler
County is supported by a robust network of emergency and law enforcement
services ready to assist residents during a crisis.
·
The Schuyler County Public Health Department
collaborates with the Western Region Health Care Emergency Preparedness
Coalition, local emergency responders, Schuyler Hospital, and the Medical
Reserve Corps (MRC) to plan, train, and respond to public health emergencies,
such as disease outbreaks or natural disasters.
·
The Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office, led by
Sheriff Kevin Rumsey, is committed to public safety and crime reduction. The
Sheriff’s Office provides rapid response to emergencies, coordinates with other
law enforcement agencies, and offers community outreach to promote safety.
·
The Schuyler County Emergency Management Office
works closely with local, state, and federal partners to coordinate disaster
response and recovery efforts.
“Preparedness is a shared
responsibility,” Getman emphasized. “I encourage all Schuyler County residents
to take time this September to review their emergency plans, refresh their
supplies, and connect with our local services. By working together, we can
build a stronger, safer community ready to face any challenge.” For more
information on National Preparedness Month and how to prepare, visit www.ready.gov
