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Rockland County Urges Residents to Prepare for Emergencies During National Preparedness Month 2025

Published

11 months ago

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September marks National Preparedness Month, a nationwide campaign aimed at promoting disaster readiness and encouraging individuals and communities to plan ahead for emergencies. In recognition of this initiative, the Rockland County Department of Health is calling on residents to take proactive steps to ensure their families are prepared for unexpected events.

“By being informed and having a well-thought-out plan tailored to your specific needs, you can significantly enhance your ability to handle major emergencies or disasters,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “We urge everyone to stay informed, develop a comprehensive emergency plan, and act now to create a safer and more resilient future.”

Key Steps to Be Prepared:

  • Build an Emergency Supply Kit: Include enough non-perishable food and water to last at least 10 days. Plan for 1–2 gallons of water per person per day.

  • Have Essential Equipment: Keep battery-powered radios, flashlights, and extra batteries on hand.

  • Stay Connected: Keep cell phones charged and have backup power sources available to receive alerts or call for help.

  • Plan for Health Needs: Maintain a stocked first aid kit and a 10-day supply of prescription medications.

  • Protect Important Documents: Store items like medical records, insurance policies, and ID cards in waterproof containers. Keep small amounts of cash available.

  • Plan for Pets: Have food and supplies ready for pets, and make arrangements in case of evacuation.

  • Create a Family Emergency Plan: Make sure every family member knows what to do and how to stay in touch during a crisis.

Stay Informed:

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of multiple resources to stay updated:

  • Download the FEMA App for real-time alerts and safety tips.

  • Sign up for NY-Alert, a free service providing weather and emergency notifications.

  • Register for Rockland County RAVE to receive local emergency notifications and community news.

  • Enroll in the Rockland County Access & Functional Needs Registry to ensure emergency services are aware of any special needs during a disaster.

For more information on how to prepare for emergencies and to access local resources, visit the Rockland County Department of Health – Emergency Preparedness page or the Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services.

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Government

Clarkstown Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl Launches Text Alerts for Tax Bill Updates

Published

4 days ago

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August 9, 2026

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CLARKSTOWN, NY — Beginning with the new tax season on September 1, the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office will offer residents a new and convenient way to receive updates about their tax bills directly by text message.

Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl announced that residents can opt in to the service by texting “TAXINFO” to 845-644-6899.

Once a resident’s tax bill is ready, those enrolled will receive a text message containing a link. Residents can then enter their property address to view their tax bill and, if they choose, make a payment online.

The new text notification system does not replace traditional mailed tax bills. Residents who sign up for the service will continue to receive their regular tax bill in the mail. The text alerts are intended to provide an additional and more convenient way for residents to know when their bills are available and access their information.

“Residents asked for a simpler way to receive tax bill information, and I’m proud that we were able to make it happen,” Wohl said.

Residents with questions about the new service can contact the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office at 845-639-2010.

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Government

Flock Cameras in Rockland County: Safety Tool or Privacy Concern?

Published

5 days ago

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August 8, 2026

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Flock cameras have become an increasingly debated topic across the country, including here in Rockland County.

Flock cameras are automated license plate readers used by law enforcement to capture license plates and vehicle characteristics as vehicles pass by. Police can use the information to assist with investigations, including locating stolen vehicles, identifying vehicles associated with wanted suspects, helping find missing people and developing leads following crimes.

One of the cameras pictured is located outside The Shops at Nanuet in Clarkstown. A graphic from the website DeFlock also shows reported camera locations throughout the area.

Supporters say the technology can give police an important investigative tool and help solve crimes more quickly. Critics, however, have raised concerns about privacy and the collection of information about where people drive, even when they are not suspected of committing a crime.

The debate ultimately comes down to a question of public safety versus privacy.

What do you think? Are Flock cameras a valuable tool for law enforcement, or are they an intrusion on your privacy?

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