Exceeding expectations, more than 130 individuals from the University and local community attended the Emergency Preparedness Day event on December 6 at Stony Brook University’s Charles B. Wang Center Theater.
The presentation was given by the Citizens Preparedness Corps (CPC) from the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Safety, with an introduction by Lawrence Zacarese, Assistant Chief of Police and Director of University Emergency Management Office for the University Police Department.
The event focused on preparing community members for natural, man-made, technology/cyber and active shooter emergencies. Tips included a three-step preparation plan, awareness and recommendations for full recovery.
Participants were also informed of modern alert systems to be better prepared for emergencies. These included the NY-Alert and See Something, Send Something apps. From understanding managing different types of fires, to stocking up with a Go-Kit, the Emergency Preparedness Day program was filled with useful and helpful information.
“We want everyone to be prepared for all types of emergencies,” said Captain Joshua Tavares, a Team Leader for CPC. “Taking the time now and forming a plan when everything is okay will benefit everyone’s safety if something does happen.”
Each attendee earned a certification of preparedness for their participation. CPC distributed informational pamphlets and wallet cards. Stony Brook University Employee Assistance Program gave away LED flashlights, travel first aid kits and office information.
“With such a diverse student population and workforce, there is both a need and a demand for education and information as to how severe weather in the Northeast can impact the Stony Brook experience,” said Bryan Weiss, Director of Healthier U. “Whether hurricanes in the fall, blizzards in the winter, or critical incidents on campus; first-year students and newly-hired employees need the tools and resources to be best-prepared for both natural and man-made disasters and emergencies.”
Four individuals won raffles of Go-Kits and ten individuals were given safety gift bags. Outside the Theater, attendees enjoyed pizza and water after the event had concluded.
Emergency Preparedness Day was a joint program held by CPC and Stony Brook University’s Healthier U, Government and Community Relations, Visa and Immigration Services and the University Police Department.
— Cohen Miles-Rath
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