Commemorating 20thanniversary of NYC CERT and Ready NY programs
In recognition of National Preparedness Month, the New York City Emergency Management Department will host numerous events throughout September to equip New Yorkers with the necessary tools to prepare their families, pets, businesses, and communities for any emergency.
“It’s incredibly exciting to kick off National Preparedness Month, a time when NYC Emergency Management will highlight a range of initiatives aimed at preparing New Yorkers for any type of emergency,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “Throughout September, we’ll be hosting events, sharing invaluable resources, and partnering with various organizations to offer critical information to the public. The 20th anniversary of our NYC CERT and Ready NY programs is part of this broader, enduring commitment to empower New Yorkers with the tools and information they need for enhanced safety and preparedness.”
This year’s National Preparedness Month theme is, ‘Take Control in 1, 2, 3.’ Through the various virtual and in-person events, New Yorkers will hear from emergency management experts and community groups that specialize in disaster preparedness and response. In addition to in-person and virtual events, NYC Emergency Management’s ‘Prep Talk’ podcast has dedicated a special episode to highlight the 20th anniversary of both the NYC CERT and Ready NY programs. This episode features interviews with key stakeholders, experts, and longtime volunteers, offering listeners an in-depth look at the evolution, impact, and future of these crucial community programs.
Reaching its 20th milestone year, the NYC Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) program has evolved from a modest group of committed volunteers to an expansive, well-trained network that operates across all five boroughs. These volunteers have become an invaluable asset to New York City’s emergency response infrastructure, providing critical support during various crises ranging from local power outages to significant events like Hurricane Sandy.
Similarly, the Ready NY program has undergone its own transformation, starting as a public awareness initiative and growing into an indispensable toolkit for emergency preparedness. Through targeted workshops, educational materials, and community outreach, Ready NY has provided New Yorkers with the resources they need to prepare for a host of emergency situations.
For more information or to get involved, please visit nyc.gov/ready and nyc.
