(photo: L-R- OC Deputy Commissioner of Emergency Services, Alan Mack, Captain Kyle Kilner, OC Exec, Steve Neuhaus, Master Sgt, Jennifer Caoilli, and Pete Cirigliano, OC Commissioner of Emergency Services)
By Taylor Sterling
Orange County Executive Steven Neuhaus conducted an Emergency Preparedness Seminar last week and I thought I knew everything, and I was wrong. Yes, you heard me right, I said I was wrong. Here are some of the things to consider to prepare for any emergency:
(1) Develop an emergency plan (family meeting to cover all with contact info)
(2) Build an emergency survival kit (including tools & supplies -enough for 7-10 days)
(3) Be aware and alert… Sign up for NY -Alert at alert.ny.gov
(4) Pet safety-be sure all your pets are inside in case of an emergency and crate them just in case they have to leave with you and it will also keep them calm with Rescue Remedy, a natural remedy to allay their fears-be sure they have a microchip & their collar & leash are handy- food and water as well
The Orange County 911 Center has a valuable booklet entitled “Emergency Handbook.” It is a valuable booklet to keep handy.
Cyber Security in today’s world is essential. I suggest you reach out to Kevin Brand at The Computer Guy who is most knowledgeable and will walk you through all the necessary information.
These are some of the other emergencies : Fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, natural gas safety, plus floods, lightning, power outages, and more. Pick up an information handbook today and be prepared.
For a start here are ten steps to safety:
(1) Identify and discuss potential emergencies with your family
(2) Develop an emergency plan
(3) Identify 2 places you and your family will meet in case of an emergency
(4) Practice your plan
(5) Review and revise your plan as needed
(6) Prepare emergency supplies and rotate food items frequently
(7) Gather and safeguard important documents
(8) Be aware and make your family members aware of your surroundings
(9) Know where and how to get information during an emergency, i.e., a battery-operated radio tuned to WTBQ AM 1110 FM 95.3
(10) Work with neighbors and have a plan with them especially if they are elderly or disabled
There is much more information in the handbook so take a few minutes and contact the Office of Emergency Services in Goshen. Be prepared, it can save your life and the lives of those you love.
