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Most Americans still remain unprepared for most types of disasters more than a decade after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
“We are fortunate in Putnam County to have first responders and highway departments that take the safety and well-being of our residents very seriously,” said County Executive MaryEllen Odell. “Residents also need to be knowledgeable and prepared when there is a storm or an emergency. That is why National Preparedness Month is so important.”
The county executive further advises that residents be prepared to manage three days without utilities such as electricity and water, and access to supermarkets or other local services.
Most people view emergency preparedness as a large undertaking, but being informed and having emergency supplies on hand are two steps in addition to formulating a plan that can make a big difference. One of the best resources for preparing an emergency kit can be found at www.nyalert.gov.
This free service available from New York state provides both local and state announcements. People who sign up can get real-time information about current threats delivered to their cellphones, email or via the Web.
Residents can customize what types of information they wish to receive and how they want to get them. Selected alerts can be modified or canceled at the subscriber's request. Personal information is completely protected and never shared.
“Residents who wish to help with a communitywide response to emergencies should consider joining the Medical Reserve Corps,” says Dr. Allen Beals, commissioner of health. “Putnam’s MRC still needs all types of volunteers, both non-medical and medical. For example, help is always need with important logistical support or administrative tasks.”
Interested residents can find out more information by visiting the Putnam County website or calling Keiren Farquhar, the MRC coordinator at 845-808-1390, ext. 43136.
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