Recently, Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R-18th LD) and Huntington Town Supervisor Edmund Smyth held an emergency preparedness program at the renowned Huntington Senior Center. The interactive program was delivered by Kenneth Kutner from Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services. In addition to providing an overview of emergencies that may arise, Kutner discussed the kits that one can assemble to meet the demands head-on.
“I was so excited to have this educational event right here at the Senior Center, as our older neighbors have different challenges when it comes to encountering an emergency,” said Bontempi. “The presenter tailored the event perfectly to address the unique needs of the senior population, and I believe everyone left with a better idea of how to prepare more effectively.”
Last year, Bontempi held a similar event with her legislative colleagues, albeit one that was not geared to a specific age group. Due to the ongoing threats that nature and humans can pose, in addition to the recent events in upstate New York regarding ill-prepared motorists in the cold, Bontempi felt that public education on this topic should continue indefinitely and expand its reach.
“Being prepared does involve having certain items on hand, but it is also a state of mind or even a skill,” added Bontempi. “Like other skills, preparedness has to be practiced through self-assessment and contemplation. Without practice skills can fade.”
If one is interested in learning more about emergency preparedness, a great online resource is accessible by visiting: https://www.ready.gov.
