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

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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.

Government

Rockland County Shares Back-to-School Safety Tips for Drivers, Students

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With the new school year just around the corner, Rockland County roads will soon become busier with children walking and biking to school, crossing streets and gathering at bus stops during the morning and afternoon commute.

The county is reminding parents, caregivers, students and drivers to take extra precautions to help keep children safe as they return to school.

Younger children can be especially difficult for motorists to see, while some students may be using a new bus stop, crossing unfamiliar streets or walking to school on their own for the first time.

Through its federally funded Safe Streets program, Rockland County is sharing several back-to-school safety reminders for students and motorists.

Safety Tips For Students

Students waiting for the bus are encouraged to:

  • Arrive at the bus stop early and avoid rushing.
  • Stay at least 10 feet away from the curb while waiting for the bus.
  • Look left, right and left again before crossing a street.
  • Never walk behind a school bus.

Safety Tips For Drivers

Motorists are reminded to slow down and remain alert when driving near schools, bus stops and areas where children may be walking or biking.

Drivers should also obey flashing school bus lights and stop as required when children are entering or exiting a school bus.

With more students expected on local roads once classes resume, the county is urging everyone to stay attentive and give children the extra time and space they need to travel safely.

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Government

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

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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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