Nassau County Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury) recently received a private briefing from the Office of Emergency Management Commissioner, Richard Rotanz as he felt it was important to address residents concerns raised by the heightened terror alert issued in New York City, Newark and Washington D.C.

“Although the threat level in Nassau County remains the same, we must be ready to respond to any type of emergency situation,” said Legislator Jacobs. “The latest terrorist alerts are a reminder to all residents that we must always be cognizant of our surroundings. As a county legislator, I receive daily homeland security briefings.”

Residents can be better prepared by developing a family response plan that includes the maintenance of a “go-to” bag that includes a supply of food, water, clothing, necessary medication and identification. It is also pertinent for family members to know how to get in touch with each other, as well as knowing the phone numbers of schools and medical and emergency personnel.

In late 2002, the legislature approved the establishment of the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) with the mission of coordinating the County’s efforts during emergencies and disasters, such as hurricanes. OEM is responsible for the mitigation, response, and recovery efforts associated with any natural, technological, or civil hazard that has the potential to affect Nassau County.

“I would like to reassure all of you that, through many planning and preparedness initiatives, the staff at OEM remains vigilant in preparing the County’s government and residents should any type of disaster occur,” explained Jacobs.

OEM is always prepared as it follows various standard procedures throughout the year, to ensure the safety of the residents. As a response to the heightened terror alerts, OEM have begun re-testing all emergency equipment and communication systems between the EMS, Fire Department and Police Departments and area hospitals. They also have enhanced communication connections with the Emergency Management entities of New York City, Westchester, Suffolk, Port Authority and MTA and also have continuous communication with Federal and State coordinating agencies such as FEMA and SEMO. Each day Nassau’s OEM is also granted a daily review of the Department of Homeland Security briefings and protocol.

“As we are all painfully aware, our world has changed since September 11, 2001, but Nassau County residents can be assured that the county has changed along with it by becoming better prepared,” she added.