This post is part of a series by the Energy and Climate Change team at Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County to connect area residents to disaster preparedness resources. Our area is expected to experience more intense storm events in the coming years due to climate change. Taking steps today to prepare for emergencies can make a huge impact in staying safe tomorrow.

Stay informed, get trained, and connect with your community before disaster strikes.

NY-Alert: alert.ny.gov
Sign up for free real-time emergency notifications (weather, road closures, local hazards).

Citizen Preparedness Corps: https://www.dhses.ny.gov/citizen-preparedness-training-calendar
Attend a free two-hour training led by the NY Army and Air National Guard. Includes a starter go-bag.

FEMA: ready.gov
National-level guides on building kits, making plans, and understanding hazard types.

American Red Cross Eastern or Western New York Region:
Offers disaster preparedness classes, shelter information, and volunteer opportunities.

Local Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT):
Hands-on training in basic disaster response, fire safety, light search and rescue, and medical ops.

Tompkins County Emergency Response:
Has information about local emergency response and preparedness.

Tompkins County SIREN Emergency Notification System:
The official mass notification system for Tompkins County. Sign up for regular alerts.

New York State Volunteer Opportunities
Browse and sign up for emergency-related volunteer roles in your area.

This list is not exhaustive! Have a suggestion? Let us know!
Chris Skawski Energy & Climate Change Team Leader
cjs359@cornell.edu
607-272-2292 ext. 293