New Program Helps Businesses in Emergencies

March 17, 2009

Erie County is introducing a new Corporate Emergency Access System (CEAS). This program will help keep businesses afloat in the event of a disaster. Recent emergencies like the October storm of 2006, and the crash of Flight 3407 highlight the need for this type of program in our area.

Participating businesses will be able to designate representatives who will be allowed to access their company inside restricted zones during an emergency; to maintain the core functions of the business. The designated people will be given secure identification cards.

Erie County partnered with the Business Network of Emergency Resources (BNet) to develop this program, at the urging of the County's business community. Access to the workplace is a critical issue to the survival of some companies. Participating businesses include; M&T Bank, HSBC Bank, Citigroup, IBM, Merrill Lynch, and Buffalo Place.

Erie County Executive Chris Collins says, "We must do everything we can to help our business community recover in the event of a disaster. This disaster plan costs Erie County nothing, but could save businesses millions of dollars."

BNET Executive Director Peter Picarillo says, "There is an integral relationship between business continuity and overall emergency preparedness. Erie County's recognition of the CEAS will greatly enhance the resiliency of the region by ensuring its vital lifelines will survive a disaster".

The CEAS is already in place in the City of Buffalo, and is now expanding to a county-wide program. Business owners who would like more information about joining this program should visit www.CEAS.com