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With The Possibility Of This Upcoming Storm Here Are Some Safety Tips To Keep Warm And Safe

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Did you know heating is the 2nd leading cause of home fires?

Space Heaters

  • Keep anything that can burn, such as bedding, clothing and curtains, at least 3 feet away from the heater.
  • Make sure the heater has an automatic shut-off, so if it tips over, it shuts off.
  • Turn heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
  • Plug portable heaters directly into outlets and never into an extension cord or power strip.
  • Only use portable heaters from a recognized testing laboratory.

Fireplace

  • Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace to prevent embers or sparks jumping out.
  • Do not burn paper in your fireplace.
  • Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home.
  • Put ashes in a metal container with a lid, outside, at least 10 feet from your home.

Wood Stove

  • Make sure your wood stove is 3 feet from anything that can burn.
  • Do not burn paper in your wood stove.
  • Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home.
  • Have your chimney inspected and cleaned each year by a professional.

Furnace

  • Have your furnace inspected each year.
  • Keep anything that can burn away from the furnace.

Kerosene Heater

  • Only use kerosene heaters from a recognized testing laboratory.
  • Make sure the heater has an automatic shut-off, so if it tips over, it shuts off.
  • Refuel your cooled heater outside.

For more information and free resources you can contact usfa.fema.gov. 

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Government

Rockland County Honors Marine Corps Veteran Elizabeth Rubio with 2025 Freedom Award

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County Executive Ed Day and Director Susan Branam of the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency recognized a female veteran with the Freedom Award Monday, an annual County honor made to female veterans for outstanding service to our nation.

“Acknowledging those who have worked and sacrificed to protect the freedoms we enjoy is crucial, particularly women whose contributions to building and protecting our country have long been overlooked.” said County Executive Ed Day.

The 2025 Freedom Award was presented to Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Veteran Elizabeth “Lisa” Rubio. Rubio, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, served honorably from 2011 to 2019, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. Throughout her career, she held key roles across multiple commands, including Marine Corps Recruiting Command and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command. A dedicated leader, she supported multinational training exercises, mentored recruits, and earned multiple commendations, including two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals.

After her military service, Lisa continued her commitment to others as a Veterans Service Officer in the County of Rockland, securing $12 million in benefits for local veterans and surviving spouses. Now pursuing a law degree, she remains devoted to advocacy and service.

“I am so proud to present this award to Lisa who not only has been a trailblazer as a female Marine, but a dedicated Veteran Service Officer, and now is completing her first year in law school. I have no doubt that she will continue to do well and serve as an inspiration to future generations,” said Veterans Service Agency Director, Susan Branam.

“We thank Lisa for her bravery and continued commitment to our residents. We are proud to list your name among the women recipients of the Rockland County Freedom Award in years past,” concluded County Executive Ed Day.

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Community

DEC Issues Safety Tips As Coyote Activity Increases During Breeding Season

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Coyotes are especially active during their breeding season, which typically runs from January to March, as they mate and prepare dens for their upcoming pups. During this time, they are more territorial, which can increase the chances of conflicts with people and pets.

To reduce these risks, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) offers several recommendations: Avoid feeding coyotes and do not leave food outside, including pet food and garbage. Always feed pets indoors and secure trash and compost piles to prevent attracting coyotes. Be firm if you see a coyote—make yourself appear larger and make noise to scare it away.  Supervise pets when they are outside, particularly at dusk and night, as small pets are most vulnerable. Install a sturdy fence that is at least four feet tall and extends six inches underground to deter coyotes. Clear brush and tall grass from around your home to eliminate hiding spots for coyotes. Encourage neighbors to follow these tips to ensure the community works together to prevent conflicts.

If a coyote is exhibiting bold behaviors and shows little or no fear of people, contact your Regional Wildlife Office or, in emergency situations, the local police department. Visit the DEC website for more information on coyotes and preventing conflicts with coyotes.

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