Coordinated effort in September will give kids the tools and confidence to be ready for disasters, large and small Department for Aging encourages older adults to prepare this month with a theme of Ready, Steady, Safe
Erie County officials including Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera, and Commissioners Dr. Gale Burstein (Health), Daniel Neaverth, Jr. (Homeland Security and Emergency Services) and Randall Hoak (Aging) spoke to media on September 15 at the Erie County Public Safety Campus to highlight the resilience of local and regional emergency preparedness and response infrastructure – its personnel, its communications and its physical resources. American Red Cross Regional Disaster Program Officer Kenneth Turner and Journey’s End Chief Executive Officer Pam Bos Kefi joined the group with comments about the important roles of non-profits and community groups in supporting disaster preparedness, response and recovery.
September is National Preparedness Month, and Erie County, in coordination with its partners in COAD – Community Organizations Active in Disaster – is sharing ideas for children and their families to use when preparing their households for emergencies.
Safety messages focus on building confidence, awareness and resilience in children and families by promoting simple, age-appropriate emergency preparedness strategies. Centered on the question, “What if we’re ready?,” the campaign encourages households to take three key steps:
- Make a Plan – Know how to communicate with your family and where to meet during an emergency.
- Pack Your Kit – Gather essential supplies for health, safety and comfort, and keep them accessible and updated.
- Practice as a Family – Rehearse your plan so everyone knows what to do.
“Children face unique risks during emergencies, and we want them included in these important conversations,” said County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “While we continue our preparedness efforts with Erie County’s adults through emergency kit distribution, our HeartSafe initiative and other educational outreach, we do not want to leave our younger residents behind. When families prepare together, they build the confidence and skills to respond calmly and effectively.”
“No two disasters are alike and the impact across a community will always be felt differently,” said Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera. “That is why efforts like the Community Organizations Active in Disasters (COAD) structure are critical to engage our community partners, their services, expertise and connection to the populations they serve.”
“Preparedness isn’t just about supplies—it’s about building resilience, especially in our youngest residents. That’s why we’re asking a simple but powerful question: “What if we’re ready?,” said Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein. “As a pediatrician, I know that kids can rise to the occasion when given the right tools and encouragement. This initiative includes reminders about age-appropriate skills—like how to call 911, recognize emergencies, and build a basic emergency kit. Whether it’s a snowstorm or a medical emergency, kids can be part of the solution.”
“Emergencies can be overwhelming, but knowledge and preparation give children and families a sense of control,” said Commissioner of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Daniel Neaverth, Jr. “We want kids to feel brave, confident and ready to act when something unexpected happens.”
“Emergencies can be stressful at any age, but planning ahead reduces fear and helps older adults stay safe and independent,” said Commissioner of Department for the Aging, Randall Hoak. By making a plan, preparing a kit, and practicing together, seniors and caregivers can take important steps to protect themselves and one another.”
Erie County and COAD are encouraging schools, youth organizations, pediatricians and elected officials to share these materials and messages widely. The campaign encourages parents and caregivers to talk with children about:
- Memorizing phone numbers and addresses
- Knowing how and when to call 9-1-1
- Identifying safe exits and meeting places
- Recognizing emergency alerts on their devices
- Understanding that being prepared is just another way to take care of themselves and others
Materials and resources, listed on Erie County’s COAD web site, include:
- Printable, customizable family emergency communication plans
- Emergency kit checklists, including adaptations for medical, sensory, and pet needs
- Information from the Reach Out to 9-1-1 program
- Links to trusted resources like the American Academy of Pediatrics, Ready.gov, and NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
- Fire safety tips and mental health strategies for staying calm during chaos
