Marilyn Nelson of Jamestown is over 70 and recently attended a free disaster preparedness training to help protect her family and the animals on her farm.
"I thought this would be a nice way to learn some new things," said Nelson.
It's one of several sessions part of the Citizen Preparedness Corps, administered by the National Guard together with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services in communities across the state to better prepare people if and when disaster strikes.
What You Need To Know
- State emergency leaders recently marked Disaster Preparedness Month
- Leaders teamed up with the state Office for the Aging to offer free seminars to residents
- Many were geared toward older Americans who may need a refresher on how to prepare for an emergency
"I think the public needs to be updated on these types of things. I know I've forgotten tricks of the trade, said Nelson.
Leaders with the National Guard cover a number of topics including blizzards, floods, tornadoes, fires and other large-scale disasters. The Guard also advises people to stock up on emergency supplies, as services may not always be readily available.
"Disasters pop up in the blink of an eye. If residents aren't prepared for it, then you know we could lose lives. So the goal is to train these residents to be better prepared so then that way we help save lives," said Master Sergeant Adam Winters, training instructor, NYS Citizen Preparedness Corp.
The departments have also teamed up with the state Office for the Aging to help gear the program toward the most vulnerable members of the senior community.
"You can't take for granted that people can do what they need to do without some assistance, or some simple training and some steps on how to be prepared," said Greg Olsen, acting director, NYSOFA.
Not only in their own homes, but in community care centers and other places seniors gather.
"Help them think outside the box. Maybe things they haven't thought about and to really help raise awareness regarding those things that we do mention in this program," said Winters.
A program, those like Nelson say will help keep her farm and home safe.
"It's jogged my memory on a lot of things. I think it's just a good overall thing, it's good information," said Nelson.
After, Nelson and others got a certificate and a free backpack of supplies.
Recent training sessions were also recently held in Albany, Cicero, Rochester and Buffalo.