Emergency Management

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The mission of the Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services, Emergency Management Office, is to enhance the safety and well-being of our community by coordinating comprehensive emergency management efforts. We strive to support, prepare, and empower our first responders and residents through proactive training, preparedness initiatives, and effective response strategies, ensuring a resilient and well-prepared Rockland County.

 

Who are your Emergency Managers

OFES Org Chart



 

  • Christopher Kear - Director
    • Christopher Jensen - Program Coordinator
    • Nicholas Longo - Program Coordinator
    • Peter Byrne - Program Coordinator
    • Orin Ben-Jacob - Program Coordinator

Emergency Management Trailer


Emergency Managers Key Roles and Responsibilities

  1. Emergency Planning and Coordination: The Office of Fire and Emergency Services works in collaboration with local municipalities, fire departments, law enforcement, and other response agencies to develop and implement emergency response plans. This coordination ensures that all parties are prepared to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of an emergency.
  2. Training and Exercises: The office organizes and conducts regular training sessions and emergency preparedness exercises for first responders, emergency management personnel, and the public. This ensures that everyone involved in emergency response is well-equipped to handle any situation.
  3. Hazard Mitigation and Risk Reduction: A core responsibility is identifying potential hazards in the county and taking proactive steps to reduce risks. This includes developing hazard mitigation plans and ensuring that the community is resilient against natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and severe storms.
  4. Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Management: The office manages the County’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which is activated during major emergencies. The EOC serves as the central location for coordination of resources, communication, and decision-making during a disaster.
  5. Public Information and Communication: The office disseminates critical information to the public before, during, and after an emergency. This includes warnings, evacuation orders, and updates through multiple communication channels such as social media, local radio, and reverse 911 systems.
  6. Disaster Recovery: After a disaster, the Office of Fire and Emergency Services coordinates recovery efforts, ensuring that the community can return to normalcy as quickly as possible. This involves working with state and federal agencies to provide financial assistance and support for recovery operations.

Public Service Announcement Videos

 

Have a Plan

Having an emergency preparedness plan is vital for ensuring your safety in times of crisis. It involves understanding potential risks, knowing evacuation routes, and having essential supplies ready. A well-prepared plan also includes setting up communication strategies with family and loved ones. For more detailed guidance on creating your emergency plan, visit Ready.gov, where you can find useful resources to help you prepare for various emergencies and keep your family safe.

 

Be Prepared In An Emergency - Sign Up Online Now!

Residents can sign up for NY Alert online and receive warnings and emergency information via the web, your cell phone, email and other technologies. and receive warnings and emergency information via the web, your cell phone, email and other technologies.

People with limited mobility and special needs can register at the Rockland County Access & Functional Needs Registry, so emergency responders are aware of your needs during an emergency.

 

Hazard Mitigation Plan

The All-Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) for Rockland County and participating municipalities demonstrates county and community commitment to reducing risks from all hazards and serves as a guide for decision makers as they commit resources to minimize the effects of hazards. The HMP is the blueprint for reducing the county's vulnerability to disasters and hazards. The HMP is intended to integrate with county and municipal planning mechanisms already in place, such as building and zoning regulations, environmental planning, and long-range planning mechanisms. The planning process includes conducting a thorough hazard vulnerability analysis (HVA), creating community disaster mitigation priorities, and creating subsequent mitigation actions and projects for the town and participating municipalities. The Rockland County Hazard Mitigation Plan Project is posted for public review and comment on an external website.

Continue to our Hazard Mitigation Plan Project website.

This link provided here is external to the RocklandCountyNY.gov website and is subject to the statement of the Rockland County external website disclaimer.

 

Basic Disaster Kit

 After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own foodwater and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Visit Build a Disaster Kit to see a full list of recommended supplies.

 

Pets during Disasters

  • Make a Plan
    • Have an evacuation plan for your pet- Many public shelters and hotels do not allow pets inside. Know a safe place where you can take your pets before disasters and emergencies happen. 
    • Develop a Buddy System- Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.
    • Have your pet microchipped. Make sure to keep your address and phone number up-to-date and include contact information for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area. 
  • Build a Kit for your Pet
  • Stay Informed
  • Find more information Here Pets Info

Dog and Cat

Contact Us

Please feel free to reach out to your county emergency managers at the following email address with any further questions: EM@co.rockland.ny.us.