Senator Gallivan Again Sponsors Citizen Preparedness Event

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) is once again teaming up with the American Red Cross in New York State, the West Seneca Office of Disaster Preparedness and West Seneca CERT to help residents better prepare for, respond to and recover from natural, man-made or technological disasters.  Gallivan is inviting residents to attend a Citizen Preparedness Corps training event from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on February 4 at the West Seneca Senior Center at 4620 Seneca Street.    

“Disasters can strike at any time and our best defense is to be prepared,” Gallivan said.  “This program gives residents important information about local resources and how to prepare for various types of emergencies, whether it be a snow storm, a flood or some other type of disaster.” 

The program is being brought back by popular demand after more than 100 residents participated in the same training session sponsored by Gallivan in December. 

Working with the New York State Department of Homeland Security and other agencies, the American Red Cross in New York has trained almost 17,000 individuals in emergency preparedness.  Governor Cuomo introduced the Citizen Preparedness Corps in 2014 to help New Yorkers better respond to disasters.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program helps train local citizens to be prepared to respond to emergency situations in their communities.  Training in basic disaster survival and rescue skills would improve the ability of citizens to survive until responders or other assistance could arrive.

Those interested in attending the free training event must register by contacting Senator Gallivan’s office at 656-8544.  Individuals may also take an online version of the Citizen Preparedness Corps training at www.prepare.ny.gov. 

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