CHICAGO: Michael Masters, Cook County Homeland Security Executive Director came to Sikh Religious Society in Palatine to present a new County sponsored Community Emergency Response Program (CERP) for Sikh Society members getting involved in emergency preparedness and response training.
Thakar S. Basati, Sikh Religious Society (SRS)Independent Associate Director and Temple Board Chair, arranged the visit, which he said “is the first step in a process to help Sikh Society members get ready for emergencies.” Sokhi Singh, SRS Board President, introduced Director Michael Masters.
CERP provides free training for society members interested in learning skills training in fire safety, first aid, search and rescue, and other skills to assist in emergency situations. As part of the program, Sikh Society members would receive training and instruction to operate as a team that would respond to emergencies in facilities or assist other areas of the County during disasters.
The tragedy of Oak Creek is a reminder that emergencies and disasters can strike at any time, and with little or no warning. Events such as flooding, tornadoes, power outages and winter storms also serve as a reminder that the community should be prepared for any situation.
Director Michael Masters spoke to a large group in attendance at the Sunday services, and emphasized the importance of a “whole community” approach to preparing all citizens. He thanked Society leaders for their interest and participation in CERP, and pledged his continued support for Sikh community public safety efforts.
The CERP team was taken on a tour of the Palatine Society Temple, and also met with many individual members to discuss the CERP program. CERP team members were available to take surveys from interested Sikh Society members. The surveys will help guide the CERP on how to design programs that meet the needs of the Sikh Society members.
The CERP will offer free resources, including organized training activities and volunteer instruction courses. The next step in the process is to establish a Sikh Society team. After the team is established, Cook County CERP will conduct a workshop to provide additional detailed information about the program and membership training requirements.
Surendra Ullal
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