Official page of the Commissioner for the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Follow @NYSDHSES for agency news & updates.

Joined October 2021
34 Photos and videos
Leading this agency is the privilege of a lifetime and I thank @GovKathyHochul for this incredible opportunity. I look forward to leading the Division as we advance Governor Hochul's top priority in strengthening public safety throughout the entire state.
We're proud to announce Terry O'Leary has been confirmed as our new Commissioner! With a decade of experience as Executive Deputy Commissioner, @DHSESCommish has been instrumental in supporting first responders in their efforts to keep New Yorkers safe: bit.ly/4o81ecg
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Commissioner Terry O'Leary retweeted
New Yorkers, plan ahead today if you're outside for the FIFA World Cup match or a watch party. 🥤 Stay cool and hydrated 🏃 Avoid strenuous outdoor activity 🏡 Check on neighbors 🚗 Never leave children or pets in a vehicle ☀️ Heat safety tips: dhses.ny.gov/extreme-heat
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Commissioner Terry O'Leary retweeted
An important heat safety message from @DHSESCommish. Oh, and by the way… Go Knicks! 🏀
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Terry’s dedication to improving the lives of Division employees and first responders statewide has been central to our wellness efforts to date, and I look forward to seeing him advance this work to ensure we always take care of those who protect us.
We are thrilled to announce that Terry Hastings will serve as our first-ever Chief Wellness Officer! In this vital role, Terry will spearhead our comprehensive wellness program for DHSES employees & the New York State public safety community. Learn more: dhses.ny.gov/news/dhses-anno…
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Congratulations to the graduates of the 93rd Recruit Firefighter training class. Today, these men & women join the ranks of the thousands of brave & dedicated individuals who protect their communities — we wish them well as they begin their careers & thank them for their service.
Congrats to the 25 firefighters who graduated today from the 15-week Recruit Firefighter Training program! This outstanding accomplishment lays the foundation for their career in the fire service & we thank them for their commitment to public safety: bit.ly/4uqT9S8
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Extreme heat can be deadly and as temps start to rise across the state, New Yorkers must be aware of the risks. Preparedness is key to staying safe from extreme heat: monitor your local forecast, stay hydrated & have a plan in the event of power outages. health.ny.gov/press/releases…

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Beginning the day at the Joint Traffic Management Center alongside our partners @dmjuliakerson, @nycemergencymgt, and @NYPDnews, actively monitoring traffic to guarantee safe travels for all New Yorkers.
Starting the day with @NYC_DOT @nycemergencymgt @NYPDnews and @NYSDHSES at the Joint Traffic Management Center to monitor traffic and ensure New Yorkers are able to commute safely.
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Commissioner Terry O'Leary retweeted
Last week, @DHSESCommish and @GovKathyHochul's team met with @ConsulMexNuy to discuss important preparations ahead of the numerous events this summer, including the @FIFAWorldCup. Together, we're ensuring New York is ready.
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Those who choose a life as a firefighter know the dangers of this work and walk toward it anyway, ready to make their communities safer. Today, we reflect on their dedication, their strength, and their service. We will never forget their sacrifice.
Fire service members across NYS and beyond selflessly dedicate their lives to protect and help keep their local communities safe. In recognition of International Firefighters Day, DHSES honors these devoted and heroic men and women for their service and sacrifice.
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NYS' public safety canines & their handlers work in ever-evolving landscapes – training is key to keeping themselves and their communities safe. DHSES is proud to host Canine Week for the sixth time & we thank our law enforcement partners for their participation & their service.
This week, DHSES hosted 62 explosive detection canine teams from across the state for Canine Week at the SPTC. This program supports handlers and their canine partners to practice response and leadership skills in a variety of real-world scenarios: bit.ly/48CpeO7
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New York’s volunteer firefighters are critical parts of communities statewide. Thanks to the leadership & support of @GovKathyHochul, this stipend program expansion will continue to help volunteer departments recruit & retain members, keeping themselves & their communities safe.
New York’s Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend program is expanding to offset costs for five additional training courses available to volunteer firefighters, helping reduce obstacles that prevent volunteer firefighters from advancing their careers. governor.ny.gov/news/support…
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During a severe weather emergency, every second counts. You can’t prepare for an emergency during the emergency, which makes planning ahead key to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. Have a plan, build a kit, and sign up for emergency alerts to stay informed.
New York, are you ready for severe weather? 🌧️🌪️🌩️ From flooding to tornadoes, New York experiences a range of severe weather. This Severe Weather Awareness Week, we're focused on helping you understand the risks and how to stay safe. 📰 Learn more: bit.ly/4tYkOtg
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Commissioner Terry O'Leary retweeted
Today, @DHSESCommish & OIEC staff had the honor of visiting the Columbia County 9-1-1 Center! We wanted to thank the staff for their tireless work & dedication. This center is the critical first response for all 911 calls in Columbia County, guaranteeing help during emergencies.
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Commissioner Terry O'Leary retweeted
Approximately 240 million 9-1-1 calls are made across the country every year. ☎️ This #NationalPublicSafetyTelecommunicatorsWeek, join us in thanking our 911 dispatchers and telecommunicators for their hard work and dedication to keeping New Yorkers safe.
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Commissioner Terry O'Leary retweeted
Congratulations to Megan Abel from OEM and the Admin & Finance Fleet and Facilities team for being named DHSES Employee & Team of Quarter 4! These employees have gone above and beyond to support our mission, and we recognize them for their amazing work!
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Commissioner Terry O'Leary retweeted
SCAM ALERT: We’ve been notified that scammers are contacting New Yorkers via phone & text claiming to be from DHSES, requesting payment & personal info. If you receive such a text or call it is a scam. Do not share your personal info & report the text through the proper channel.
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Our first responders must receive the support they need to take care of themselves the way that they take care of others. This new training will provide mental health professionals with the insight they need to work with first responders and expand treatment options.
Supporting our first responders' mental health is crucial. This #FirstResponderWellnessWeek, we're proud to release a new online training for mental health professionals, which includes insights from the NYS First Responder Mental Health Needs Assessment. governor.ny.gov/news/during-…
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