As winter draws near, it’s important to prepare ourselves for what the season might bring. Storms in recent years have brought unprecedented amounts of snow, freezing rain, high winds and extreme temperatures. Here in Onondaga County, those conditions can be harmful, causing power outages, endangering walkways and interrupting essential services. That’s why I encourage all to attend the upcoming Citizen Preparedness Training I’m hosting with the American Red Cross.

In the event of a disaster, emergency preparedness helps us better navigate challenges in a confusing time. This past February, Syracuse had its coldest month on record ever, with an average temperature of just 9.1 degrees and the most consecutive days of freezing temperatures. These conditions can make everyday life in Central New York that much harder and increase the need for communities to take the proper precautions.

Protecting families should always be our highest priority. That’s why I’m asking all who can to attend the upcoming Citizen’s Preparedness Training session on Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 6-8 p.m. in the auditorium of North Syracuse Junior High School, 5353 W. Taft Road. An American Red Cross trained disaster specialist will be there to answer any questions and teach you and your family how to prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies.

In addition to attending the training session, there are other steps you can take to help ensure your safety this winter. In the event of a severe storm, stay indoors and off the roads as much as possible. Make sure you have emergency supplies, food and water on hand and discuss an evacuation plan with your family. If the power goes out, conserve heat by closing off unnecessary rooms and never use the stove or grill to heat your home. And, please don’t forget to check on older family members, friends and neighbors who may be at increased risk during cold weather hazards.

If you have any questions about emergency preparedness or any other community issue, please feel free to contact me at StirpeA@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling 452-1115.