Are You Prepared for an Emergency?

NEW CITY, NY, - September is National Preparedness Month, a nationwide campaign designed to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for unexpected disasters and emergencies. The Rockland County Department of Health encourages residents to take proactive steps now to ensure they and their families are ready should an emergency occur.

“By being informed and having a well-thought-out plan tailored to your specific needs, you can significantly enhance your ability to handle major emergencies or disasters.  We urge everyone to stay informed, develop a comprehensive emergency plan, and act now to create a safer and more resilient future,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health.

Steps to Be Prepared: 

• Build an Emergency Supply Kit: Stock enough food and water to last up to ten days. Plan for 1–2 gallons of water per person per day for drinking and personal hygiene. Choose non-perishable food that does not require cooking or refrigeration.
• Have Essential Equipment: Keep battery-operated radios, flashlights, and extra batteries on hand.
• Stay Connected: Always keep your cell phone charged and have a backup battery power source available to stay connected, receive alerts, and call for help.
• Plan for Health Needs: Maintain a first aid kit and an adequate supply of prescription medications and other essential medicines.
• Protect Important Documents: Store insurance policies, medical records, bank account numbers, and social security cards in waterproof containers. Keep cash (in small bills), credit cards, and ATM cards readily available.
• Plan for Pets: Have food and supplies for your pets and make arrangements for their care during an evacuation, as most shelters only allow “service animals”.
• Create a Family Emergency Plan: Discuss and practice how your family will communicate and what you will do in different situations, as family members may not be together when disaster strikes.

Stay Informed:

• Download the FEMA App: Residents are encouraged to download the free FEMA app to receive real-time emergency alerts and preparedness information.
• Sign up for NY-Alert, a free service providing weather and emergency-related alerts.
• Register with Rockland County RAVE to receive local emergency notifications and important community news.
• Follow local news and emergency broadcasts for official information, including evacuation notices.
• Residents with special needs or limited mobility can enroll in the Rockland County Access & Functional Needs Registry, ensuring emergency personnel are aware of their needs in the event of a disaster.

For more local information about preparing for emergencies, visit the Rockland County Department of Health Public Health Emergency Preparedness and the Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services.

###

Follow us on X: @rockhealth
Follow us on Instagram: Instagram.com/rocklandhealth
Like us on Facebook: Facebook.com/rockhealth
Visit our website: RocklandCountyNY.gov