WHITE PLAINS, NY (October 3, 2025) — Westchester County will host a free Citizen Preparedness Corps training session on October 15 at 6 p.m. at the County’s Fire Training Center, located at 4 Dana Road, Valhalla, to equip residents with skills to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies.
The event, organized by the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services (WCDES) in partnership with the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (NYS DHSES), aims to provide practical tools for handling natural or man-made disasters. Participants will receive a free preparedness kit, or “go-bag,” upon completing the session.
“With severe weather events becoming more frequent and extreme, it’s more important than ever that we help our community members be prepared,” said Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins. “This free training will introduce residents to the critical tools needed for responding to a range of natural or man-made emergencies – when every second counts and knowing what to do before, during or after a disaster can save lives.”
The training will cover the types of risks and hazards New Yorkers face, how to create household emergency plans, and essential supplies to keep on hand. The session is designed to help residents plan, respond appropriately, and recover quickly from emergencies.
“This program provides a great opportunity to learn the basics of preparing for emergencies,” said WCDES Commissioner Susan Spear. “It’s free, it’s practical, and it’s one of the simplest ways you can learn to protect yourself and your loved ones. You will also receive a free ‘go-bag,’ which is essential to being prepared for an emergency.”
The training runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m., and registration is required. Residents can sign up online for the October 15 session in Valhalla.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.
