cert 1st quarter 2015

JANUARY - FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015

ELMA / WEST SENECA

ELMAEdward R. Sauer Emergency Manager(716) [email protected]

MEETINGS - 7:00 PM2nd Wednesday of MonthTraining and meetings are at the Elma Senior Center unless noted.

Elma Senior Center 3007 Bowen RoadElma, NY 14059Web: elmanewyork.com/oem/ECert.html Facebook: Elma Community Emergency Response Team, Inc.

WEST SENECAJohn GulloEmergency Manager(716) [email protected] - 7:00 PM3rd Monday of the monthTraining and meetings are at the West Seneca School’s Ebenezer BuildingW. S. School Ebenezer Bldg. 900 Mill RoadWest Seneca, NY 14224Watch website and Facebook for training and meeting locations. Web: www.wscert.netFacebook: West Seneca Cert

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 2006 JANUARY - FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015

When it comes down to it, the ability to respond, mitigate and recover means being resil-ient. We often talk about long-term recovery but the ability to recov-er from a disaster really means developing that resiliency be-forehand. Whether talking about the threat of a catastrophic win-ter storm or the trends for great-er concentrations of water from storms, the concept is similar; it takes partnerships, collaboration and forward thinking. Resiliency can be an all-en-compassing term. However, we will define it as a preparedness method that can be incorporated by individuals, communities, in-stitutions, businesses. A method that as a community, we can sur-vive, adapt and grow no matter what kinds of chronic stresses and acute shocks they experi-ence. Such shocks and stresses vary across the country and range from earthquakes, to hurricanes and winter storms. There are innovative efforts to develop

RESILIENCY BEGINS NOWSubmitted by John Gullo

CURRIED CHICKEN & ARTICHOKE SALADfrom Recipes for Disaster: An Emergency Preparedness Cook-book.Ingredients1 can (10 oz) chunk white-meat chicken, drained1 jar (6 oz) marinated arti-choke hearts, drained and chopped1/2 cup raisins1 tablespoon olive oil1 tablespoon rice vinegar1 teaspoon curry powder1/4 teaspoon garlic powderDirectionsToss chicken, artichoke hearts and raisins in a medium bowl.Separately blend oil, vinegar, curry powder and garlic pow-der and gently stir into chicken mixture. ServeFor more recipes and ideas www.getreadyforflu.org/Recipes-ForDisaster.htm See Story on in-side about what food to store.


Submitted by Amy Thompson

plans to help minimize the effects of these un-controllable events in the different segments of the community. Why do we mention these incidents and plan-ning? In preparing for the unknown, we imple-ment different strategies to help us develop an all hazards mitigation plan. Remember as you read, the all hazards plan is for residents, businesses, non-profits and the government. We look at dif-ferent sectors including transportation, banking, education, medical facilities and the utilities, all which need to be up and running as soon as pos-sible after an emergency. Besides the storm we just encountered, you may remember the October Storm in 2006. That storm enabled Emergency Management Coor-dinators to collaborate and devise plans to help minimize the effect on residents and the infra-structure. Regarding local school districts, we know that it is imperative to get the schools re-opened as soon as possible to restore some semblance of normalcy. We call this the new normal. Certain plans include keeping the public aware of the plans. The more preparation and collaboration between entities and neighbors, the more resil-ient the community will be. The Town of West Seneca & the Town of Elma has CodeRed to help when a disaster or event occurs and what steps they can take to minimize the impact of such. See box on back page to sign up in your community.Is the business community ready? To survive and rebuild after an event occurs, plans should be in place. There will not be time or resources available to just pull it together on the fly. Emergency re-sponders will have their normal duties and will be charged with more responsibility and will need to collaborate with different entities at the onset of these incidents. Although the types of incidents and stresses vary across the board, we challenge everyone to be-come more resilient. Start with your personal emergency plan and reach out to your neighbors to start the conversation on being prepared. For more information or discussions feel free to con-tact my office to speak to me.

BEST FOODS TO STOCKPILE FOR AN EMERGENCYFueling your body during an emergency is dif-ferent from your everyday diet. You will ex-pend more energy than you normally would, you should eat high-energy, high-protein foods. And because you’ll have a limited supply, the higher-quality foods you eat—and the less of them—the better. “In a disaster or an emergency you want those calories,” says Barry Swanson, a food scientist at Washington State Universi-ty. “You want some nutrients and some fiber—something to keep your diet normal.” What to Always Keep in Your PantryItems listed here have lengthy expiration dates, so you can stash them away for long periods of time. Make a list of everything in your stockpile and check expiration dates every 6 to 12 months to keep things fresh. And don’t forget to have a can opener on hand at all times—all that food won’t be of any use if you can’t open it.• Peanut butter - A great source of energy, full

of healthful fats and protein. • Whole-wheat crackers - Crackers are a

good replacement for bread and make a fine substitute when making sandwiches. Due to their higher fat content, whole-wheat or whole-grain crackers have a shorter shelf life than their plain counterparts (check the box for expiration dates), but the extra fiber pays off when you’re particularly hungry.

• Nuts and trail mixes - Stock up on these high-energy foods—they’re healthful and convenient for snacking.

• Cereal - Choose multi-grain cereals that are individually packaged so they don’t become stale after opening.

• Granola bars and power bars - Healthy and filling, these portable snacks usually stay fresh for at least six months. Plus, they’re an excellent source of carbohydrates. “You can get more energy from carbohydrates without [eating] tons of food,” says Andress.

• Dried fruits, such as apricots and raisins - In the absence of fresh fruit, these healthy snacks offer potassium and dietary fiber. “Dried fruits provide you with a significant amount of nutrients and calories,” says Swanson.

• Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, or turkey - Generally lasting at least two years in the


pantry, canned meats provide essential pro-tein. Vacuum-packed pouches have a shorter shelf life but will last at least six months.

• Canned vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, and peas - When the real deal isn’t an option, canned varieties can provide you with essential nutrients.

• Canned soups and chili - Soups and chili can be eaten straight out of the can and pro-vide a variety of nutrients. Look for low-so-dium options.

• Bottled water - Try to stock at least a three-day supply--you need at least one gallon per person per day. A normal active person should drink at least a half gallon of water each day

• Sports drinks - The electrolytes and carbohydrates in these drinks will help you rehydrate and replenish fluid when water is scarce.

• Powdered milk - Almost all dairy products require refrigeration, so stock this substitute for an excellent source of calcium and vita-min D when fresh milk isn’t an option.

• Sugar, salt, and pepper - If you have access to a propane or charcoal stove, you may be doing some cooking. A basic supply of seasonings and sweeteners will improve the flavor of your food, both fresh and packaged.

• Multivitamins - Supplements will help re-place the nutrients you would have consumed on a normal diet.

WHAT IS CERT?

The Community Emergency Re-sponse Team (CERT) Program edu-cates people about disaster prepared-ness for hazards that may impact their area, and trains them in basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team orga-nization, and disaster medical opera-tions. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace fol-lowing an event when professional responders are not immediately avail-able to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency re-sponse agencies by taking a more ac-tive role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

To join a team or to find out more, visit www.wscert.net or contact a member at one of the numbers listed below.

John Gullo - Town of West Seneca(716) 558-3238

Ed Sauer - Town of Elma(716) 652-7635


As the several feet of snow blanketed the South Town region during the historic November Storm, Elma CERT members were called into action. With local fire departments, such as the Jamison Volunteer Fire Company, being transformed into warming shelters for stranded motorists and oth-ers affected by the storm, the demands of the first responders grew and Elma CERT members pro-vided assistance where needed. Members helped set up the shelter space, cooked food at a local fire station and worked to maintain a comfortable atmosphere for those affected by the storm and assisted in preparing meals for the firefighters and those staying in the shelter.

As the storm persisted a decision was made to create a regional Red Cross Shelter at the Iroquois Middle School. Elma CERT members assisted the Red Cross in setting up the shelter, by help-ing with admissions, and providing a comfortable place. The Salvation Army provided meals for lunch and dinner daily. Mennonites also assisted after the storm to help clear roofs and pathways.

When the snow subsided and the roads cleared, people began to head back to work and to their business. Evidence of the storm could still be seen in a variety of ways. Fallen trees and col-lapsed roofs were some of the indicators, but something else was also apparent. There was a feeling of gratitude for services rendered shared by all involved.

Those individuals who utilized the shelters were grateful for all efforts and didn’t hesitate to share their appreciation to all helpers involved. The

Jamison Volunteer Fire Company and the Red Cross expressed their appreciation to the Elma CERT team for the services provided. The Town of Elma also acknowledged the efforts of Elma CERT and first responders.

Elma CERT was appreciative of the opportunity to work with the seasoned first responders and di-saster relief helpers and learn how to better assist our community. As Thanksgiving day was quick-ly approaching, it seemed everyone could find something for which to be grateful.

The November Storm brought many things to the Western New York South Town region. Along with the snow and the stories that will be shared for years to come, it brought many opportuni-ties for community services to collaborate, learn from one another and forge relationships that will only make our community stronger in the fu-ture.

ELMA CERT DURING STORMSubmitted by Cindy Minnich


It was Tuesday December 18th at 1:30 in the morning. I looked out the window to discover an snow event like no others. It took me 2 hours to get to the West Seneca Emergency Opera-tions Center, fighting all the elements. Once the EOC was opened I placed the call out for CERT members to respond to the EOC. A few members started to arrive around 8 am. The morning went so fast we lost track of time, looking back the entire week went the same way. During the day a few more members sporadical-ly arrived. Some with snow shoes, skies or even walked in. The West Seneca EOC fielded phone calls that were transferred by the West Seneca 911 Dis-patch center. or direct were dialed in. As the storm progressed in the team manned the radios and attempted to contact truck drivers and di-rect them to park in designated locations, team members fielded calls, including residents in need of food, medical, wellness checks, furnace and general questions regarding the storm. Tasks completed by the West Seneca CERT Team in-cluded working with the Erie County Emergency Operations Center; Sheltering some individuals in the EOC; performing quality of life checks; documenting tasks completed by all volunteers in town and assisted in the creek watch with the possibility of impending flooding.We placed Dlan tickets for resources from Erie County, that included high-lifts, sandbags and more. While working in the EOC we established a few key positions such as logistics and EOC Operators. With the storm it was challenging to

get replacement staff into the EOC due to the storm and the team not having transportation. The West Seneca EOC also hosted VOAD a faith based volunteer operations group who helped to coordinate getting paths opened and some roof racking. On average we took in ap-proximately 200 phone calls a hour. All total we have 1350 volunteer hours from the team for the week. Some more than others, either way it was a great team effort. Efforts that have been recognized from the town board to FEMA and I am proud of the team. The team worked as they never did before and came through shining. FEMA representatives were impressed with the information and efforts. Thank you letters and pins were given to mem-bers who volunteered. Shown below is Jake Hall receiving his letter and pin.

WEST SENECA CERT DURING STORMSubmitted by John Gullo


Sign up for Code Red to be notified by your local emer-gency response team in the event of emergency situations or critical community alerts. Sign-up for Code Red by visiting the link

ELMA Sign up for Elma Code Red by visiting the town website at: www.elmanewyork.com

WEST SENECACode Red sign up will start in August. Check westseneca.net, wscert.net and facebook page

UPCOMING TRAINING & EVENTS CALENDAR

January14 Elma CERT meeting19 WS CERT meeting

February11 Elma CERT Meeting16 West Seneca CERT Meeting

March11 Elma CERT meeting12 EID Counterterrorism Work-

shop - Cheektowaga16 West Seneca CERT meeting

Check the West Seneca CERT and Elma CERT, Inc. websites for up-dates and upcoming events.Anyone interested in training provid-ed by SMART must pre-register at: www2.erie.gov/smart. Some train-ings may have prerequisites.For more information on HAM Ra-dio classes visit South Towns Ama-teur Radio Society Online at: http://stars.thefruths.com

CERT TRAINING COMING SOONCERT & Basic Preparedness Training will be coming this spring. Watch for the upcoming trainings on EMPact America and the Elma and West Seneca CERT Facebook pages for more information.Empact Americafacebook.com/EMPactAmericaIncElma CERTfacebook.com/ElmaCommunityE-mergencyResponseTeamWest Seneca CERTfacebook.com/WestSenecaCERTWest Seneca Disaster Preparednessfacebook.com/WSOfficeDisaster-PreparednessFor story ideas or contributions email editor Amy Thompson at [email protected]

A FAMILY EMERGENCY PLANYour family may not be together when a emergency or travel ban could happen so it is important to plan in advance: • What do you need if stuck in your car?• How will you contact one another?• How and when will you get back together?• Who will let Fido out and feed him?• Who will check in with grandma?Emergencies could include being stuck at work or elsewhere in a severe snow storm with white-out conditions or flooding and you are unable to travel home in a timely manner. Meet and talk with your family about the need to prepare for vari-ous disasters in your area. Emergency situations can be stressful and confusion can happen.Identify trusted contacts whether it be a friend or relative. Hav-ing both a local contact and a contact that lives out of your area or state is very helpful. Be sure every family member knows the number and the contact knows you are using them. If you have a cell phone create an “ICE” contact. “ICE” stands for In Case of Emergency. Pick 2 locations to meet. First location is outside of your home in case of a sudden emergency like a fire. Outside your neigh-borhood in case you can’t return home or are asked to leave your neighborhood. Everyone will need to know the address and phone number of the location. Also discuss what do if you are asked to evacuate. Make arrangements to stay with a friend or relative and if you have animals make sure to include them in your plan. Make sure to share the route you would take.Have an emergency communication plan in the event that fam-ily members are separated. With parents at work and children in school, separation is a real possibility.Have an emergency plan for your pets. If you go to a shelter you could be turned away if you have a pet. More and more lo-cations are trying to be more pet friendly. Make sure dogs have their leashes and cats are contained. All animals should have their vet papers, food, water and any medications necessary.You should also inquire about emergency plans at places where your family spends time and at work.

cert 1st quarter 2015

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