The Ulster County Department of Emergency Services successfully concluded its Emergency Services Orientation for Elected Officials, a comprehensive four-day immersive experience that spanned two days in October and two days in November, and provided local elected officials and community leaders with an in-depth look at the critical public safety systems protecting our County.
The intensive program offered elected officials new insights into the vital roles of fire services, police departments, emergency medical services (EMS), 911 emergency communications, and emergency management first responders. Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the complex operational frameworks that ensure community safety and emergency preparedness.
The program was hosted at the Ulster County Department of Emergency Services Training Center in the Town of Ulster, with presentations by key partners, including the Ulster County Sheriff's Office, Deputy Matt King and Arson K9 Nova from the Orange County Sheriff's Office assisted the Ulster County Fire Investigation Unit with a compelling presentation on fire investigation techniques. Those who participated include Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger, Ulster County Comptroller March Gallagher, Legislator Gina Hansut, Esopus Supervisor Danielle Freer, Lloyd Councilman John Fraino, New Paltz Mayor Tim Rogers, Marbletown Supervisor Rich Parete, and Hurley Councilwoman Deborah Dougherty.
Throughout the four-day program, the eight participants from local and county governments received in-depth presentations and participated in interactive demonstrations and simulations with experienced emergency personnel, giving them insight into the critical split-second decisions and technical expertise required in emergency response scenarios. The orientation further provided a rare opportunity for elected leaders to examine technology, protocols, and best practices in emergency management, with comprehensive briefings on state-of-the-art equipment, communication systems, and strategic approaches to managing emergencies, disasters, and critical incidents.
"This program has been instrumental in strengthening our collaborative approach to public safety,” said Everett Erichsen, Director of Emergency Services for Ulster County. "By providing our community's leadership with an in-depth understanding of our emergency services, we're building a more resilient and prepared community."
Key highlights of the program included:
• Detailed briefings from each emergency service division
• Hands-on simulation experiences
• Technical demonstrations of emergency response technologies
• In-depth discussions of current emergency management strategies
“This is a very unique program and an extraordinary opportunity for elected officials to gain a deeper understanding of emergency services operations and a real sense of the coordination and skills required to respond to what can be very challenging and dangerous conditions in an emergency,” said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger. “I want to thank Emergency Services Director Everett Erichsen and Deputy Director Mike Madison for putting this invaluable program together, and I encourage other local and County officials to take advantage of this opportunity the next time it rolls around."
"Thank you so much for this invaluable training. I found the knowledge gained very much worth the commitment of time,” said Ulster County Comptroller March Gallagher. “I hope the training continues to be offered and that other elected officials take advantage of this very useful training. I have a much deeper understanding of the complex system that makes up our emergency management, fire services, and public safety operations."
“Having just completed the Orientation to Emergency Services Program, I am grateful I took the time to do so. I have such a thorough understanding now of how all our first responders work, work together, and work with our community partners,” said Legislator Gina Hansut (District 10, Highland & Marlborough), Chair Law Enforcement & Public Safety Committee. “We all know the importance of Emergency Services, but the insight presented in this program was invaluable. I thank Director Erichsen and his team, and all who presented, for their time and effort. Well done by all.
“The Ulster County Department of Emergency Services team provided us with an invaluable, behind-the-scenes look at, what I believe, should be the top priority of any elected official,” said Town of Esopus Supervisor Danielle Freer. “Their depth of knowledge, experience, and commitment to public safety is truly unmatched, and their insights have given me a greater understanding of the complexities involved. I leave this training confident in making informed public safety decisions and with an even deeper appreciation for our first responders' daily contributions to our community.”
“I want to thank County Executive Metzger and Ulster County Director of Emergency Services Everett Erichsen for putting out the Emergency Services Orientation for Elected Officials,” said Town of Marbletown Supervisor Rich Parete. “Public safety directly impacts the well-being and quality of life within all communities. Learning and understanding all the different facets of our public safety system is critical for elected officials and helps us do our jobs better. All of us who took the training have a much better understanding and appreciate everyone who protects us each day.”
“The recent trainings organized by Ulster County’s Department of Emergency Services were helpful and interesting,” said Village of New Paltz Mayor Tim Rogers. “They gave me a deeper understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges faced by Fire, Police, EMS, 911 Operations, and Emergency Management. I will strongly recommend the program to other local elected colleagues.”
"Prior to serving as a town board member, I was a fire commissioner in Highland for 17 years. I learned more about county and state Emergency Services in the four training sessions than I did as fire commissioner,” said Town of Lloyd Councilman John Fraino. “I really appreciated how the presentations explained the roles of the various emergency agencies and how they interact with each other to coordinate emergency services and provide our towns and county with excellent coverage. I would encourage all elected officials to attend future sessions. Thanks to all involved who prepared and presented the program."
