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

New York, USA
Joined October 2021
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
1
1
12
727
In addition to protecting their neighbors, NY’s volunteer fire departments are often a part of the fabric of their communities. @GovKathyHochul has been a strong supporter of NY’s volunteer fire service & the expansion of this tax credit further demonstrates that commitment.
Our volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers are there for us when we need them most, answering the call at all hours to keep our families safe. Today in the Village of Hempstead, I was proud to announce we're increasing the state income tax credit for these hometown heroes. New York salutes you!
2
122
Congratulations to Christopher Murray from OFPC & the USA250/FIFA World Cup 2026 Preparedness Collaboration team for being named DHSES Q2 Employee & Team of the Quarter! Thank you all for your exceptional professionalism, dedication to our mission, and outstanding work!
1
6
548
This funding builds on @GovKathyHochul’s ongoing investments in volunteer fire departments across New York State. In September, $25 million in funding was announced for 65 volunteer fire departments and districts through the V-FIRE Grant Program, administered by DHSES.
Today @GovKathyHochul announced $1 million in state funding for the Village of Hempstead Volunteer Fire Department to purchase new radio equipment. The investment allows the department to improve emergency communication among first responders operating in dangerous conditions.
1
86
Yesterday, I had the privilege of speaking at our Grants Management Workshop. Grants are more than just funding—they are investments in the future of our communities. By strengthening our management & oversight, we ensure these resources build a stronger, more equitable NYS.
1
2
199
Few vocations are as taxing and impose as much on an individual, family and friends as the fire service does. Today, we honor 53 brave firefighters who answered the call to serve as a way of life — let us never forget who they were and the sacrifices they made.
Today, 53 fallen firefighters were honored at the 29th Annual New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony in Albany. The Memorial honors 2,871 of New York’s firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty: governor.ny.gov/news/governo…
3
196
Last week, I met with tribal public safety leaders Kanentiio Mitchell, Fire Chief of the Hogansburg Akwesasne Volunteer Fire Department, and Nolan Jacobs, Emergency Manager for the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe, to discuss how DHSES can be supportive in times of disaster.
1
1
4
202
Last week, I visited the Port Henry Fire District to personally congratulate Chief Hughes & his dedicated team on their V-Fire Grant award. This vital funding will directly support crucial facility upgrades, boost local response capabilities & strengthen emergency preparedness.
1
1
216
Last week, @DHSESCommish attended & spoke at the @NYSDCJS annual Border Crime Symposium in Lake Placid. This two-day gathering of command-level leaders from federal, state, local, tribal, and Canadian law enforcement, focused on the threats & trends shaping our northern border.
2
1
621
The SPTC provides a world-class, reality-based environment where partners can align their tactics and build the trust necessary for seamless emergency response. This milestone tenth annual exercise underscores the State’s unwavering commitment to keeping New Yorkers safe.
Celebrating 20 years of the State Preparedness Training Center & the 10th annual Excelsior Challenge! This week, 140+ officers from 55 agencies trained in Oriskany to strengthen coordination, sharpen skills, and keep New Yorkers safe.
82
An important safety message from @DHSESCommish regarding the coastal storm that began impacting New York State today and is expected to last through Sunday. @govkathyhochul has declared a State of Emergency for Nassau, Suffolk, NYC and Westchester.
6
14
1,292
In support of the impending nor’easter downstate, the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been activated. The Division’s staff are working closely with local, state, and federal partners to monitor the situation and support local requests for assistance.
1
6
13
976
A nor'easter bringing strong winds, heavy rain & coastal flooding is expected to impact parts of NY later today, with NYC, Long Island & the Hudson Valley facing the greatest risk. Power outages, flooding & downed trees are possible. Monitor your local forecast & be prepared.
1
5
2
9
2,773
NY is home to some of the nation’s most experienced emergency management professionals who have dedicated their lives to keeping their communities safe. By sharing our expertise, we're helping build safer, more resilient communities in both NYS & the DR. governor.ny.gov/news/governo…
1
2
216
There is good confidence that a Nor'easter will bring impactful rain, wind & coastal hazards to eastern and southeastern NY, beginning tomorrow. Stay vigilant & monitor your local forecast. Text the name of your county/borough to 333111 for real-time weather & emergency alerts.
7
18
1,427
Under @GovKathyHochul's leadership, we are proud to partner with the @NYSBridge and other colleagues to host this delegation of public safety professionals.
Today, @DHSESCommish welcomed a delegation of 55 emergency management & public safety representatives from the Dominican Republic to NY for a training & collaboration summit at the SPTC. The training curriculum was developed through a joint effort between DHSES and @NYSBridge.
1
2
139
Today, @GovKathyHochul announced $25 million in capital funding for 65 volunteer fire departments and districts across New York State to improve facilities, response capabilities, and emergency preparedness. Read the full press release: governor.ny.gov/news/support…
1
5
2
7
1,249