The Putnam County Sheriff's Office is offering training to residents about how to respond to active shooter incidents.  The nationally devised instruction model would add to an existing initiative called Operation Safe Putnam, a program designed to empower citizens with strategies for deterring violent crimes. 

The new training course is available to anyone who lives, works or worships in Putnam County. 

Several members of the Putnam County Sheriff's Office recently earned certifications as instructors for the program, enabling them to provide the training locally.  Training topics include a review of the history and prevalence of active shooter events, recommended civilian response options, medical issues and guidance for conducting preparedness drills. 

Federal grant funding means the training can be offered free of charge, and can be customized to meet the needs of any organization, including office buildings, retail stores, medical facilities, and places of worship.

For more information about CRASE, or to schedule an on-site consultation and safety assessment, interested persons may send an email to crase@putnamcountyny.gov or call (845) 808-4325.