Recent winter storms and flash flooding have provided reminders of how quickly emergencies can disrupt life in Putnam County, prompting health and emergency management officials to urge residents to prepare before the next crisis strikes.
The Putnam County Department of Health is using September’s National Preparedness Month to encourage residents to develop household emergency plans, assemble basic supplies and make sure they can receive local emergency alerts.
The message comes after County Executive Kevin Byrne declared a state of emergency and imposed a 13-hour overnight travel ban during severe winter weather in February. In July, torrential rain and flash flooding led Putnam Valley Supervisor Alison Jolicoeur to declare a state of emergency there.
“We’ve seen firsthand how quickly severe weather can impact our communities, whether it’s a major winter storm, flash flooding or another unexpected emergency,” Byrne said.
Officials recommend starting with a simple household plan that everyone understands, including where family members will meet and how they will communicate if separated. Plans should account for children, older adults, people with disabilities and pets, as well as medications, medical equipment, and transportation needs.
Residents are also encouraged to prepare a “go-bag” with water, nonperishable food, medications, a first-aid kit, flashlight, extra batteries, phone charger and change of clothing. A second emergency kit can be kept in the car.
Connie Bueti, the county’s public health emergency preparedness coordinator, said residents shouldn’t feel they have to do everything at once.
“Take 15 minutes each Sunday in September to take one small step,” she said, suggesting residents pick up extra water, download a local emergency app or gather important documents in a waterproof bag.
Pet owners should also prepare supplies including food, water, medications, a leash or carrier, and veterinary and identification records.
The Putnam County Bureau of Emergency Services will offer a citizen preparedness course on the evening of Oct. 29. The program is designed to teach residents how to prepare for and respond to disasters and other emergencies.
Citizen Preparedness Course: Oct. 29 at the Putnam County Bureau of Emergency Services. Advance registration is required through the New York State Citizen Preparedness Corps.
Putnam County Alerts: Residents can register for county emergency notifications and select which alerts they want to receive, including safety and evacuation instructions.
Build a go-bag: Include water, nonperishable food, first-aid supplies, medications, a flashlight and batteries, phone charger and clothing.
Don’t forget pets: Keep pet food, water, medications, a leash or carrier, veterinary records, and identification information ready in case of evacuation.
Article provided by Putnam County Department of Health
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