Emergency Management

Office of Emergency Management

Emergency Manager	Eric Conley
1st Deputy Emergency Manager	Daniel McCartan
2nd Deputy Emergency Manager	Peter Spilsbury

The Town of West Seneca Office of Emergency Management has many responsibilities. Our office plans and prepares for emergencies, educates the public about preparedness, coordinates emergency response and recovery, and collects and disseminates emergency information. We also manage the Emergency Operations Center and coordinate with sheltering agencies during an emergency. During heavy rains and other weather events we monitor the creek levels and road conditions for hazards. Upon the notification of a fire, hazardous materials spill or any other type of emergency we respond to assist as a resource.

Click on the CodeRED logo on the homepage to sign up to receive emergency telephone notifications for the Town of West Seneca (or click the following link).

https://public.coderedweb.com/cne/en-US/BF1407564551

FEMA's www.ready.gov website offers guidance on what to do to stay safe in the event of an emergency.

Create an escape plan

Each member of the family should know how to get safely outside by at least two routes. Family members should practice opening their windows to become familiar with their operation. Jammed windows should be identified and repaired. If, during a fire, a window is jammed, it may be broken out with an object and a blanket or towel placed over the frame to cover shards of glass. However, it is much safer to open a window than it is to break the glass out.

Never put locks or bars on windows or doors that cannot be opened from the inside.

Realize the Danger of Smoke

Each member of the family should understand the importance of crawling low under smoke. Smoke and heat rise so the best place to find fresher, cooler air is near the floor. When a person is caught in a building filled with smoke, they should drop on hands and knees and crawl to the nearest exit. Test all closed doors before opening them. Feel the back of the door. If it is hot, don't open it. Turn and go to the second route of exit. If the door is not hot, open slowly but be prepared to slam it closed if there are flames.

Practice what to do if you become trapped. Since doors hold back smoke and firefighters are adept at rescue, the chances of survival are excellent. Close doors between you and the smoke. Stuff the cracks and cover vents to keep smoke out. If there is a phone, call in your exact location to the fire department even if they are on the scene. Wait at the window and signal with a sheet, flashlight or something visible.