The Washington County Department of Public Safety has achieved accreditation through New York’s Local Emergency Management Accreditation program, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on Tuesday.
To become accredited, an agency must meet a series of standards and best practices, which promote a coordinated and integrated approach to emergency management, according to a news release. The agency must involve stakeholders including government and private partners, and consider the needs of those who may require specific attention during an emergency or disaster such as the homeless, elderly, or disabled.
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services administers the program on behalf of the Local Emergency Management Accreditation Council, which serves as the governing body for the program. Accreditation is valid for five years, with an opportunity to obtain re-accreditation after the five-year period.