Carmel, NY – The Putnam County Bureau of Emergency Services announced the appointment of Chris Formisano and Shanna Siegel, RN, as Public Information Officers (PIOs) for the Bureau and Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Chris Formisano, County Communications Director, and Shanna Siegel, Supervising Public Health Educator from the County Department of Health, bring a wealth of experience and training to their new responsibilities.

Both Formisano and Siegel have extensive training from the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (NYSDHSES) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in Public Information Officer responsibilities and the Incident Command System (ICS). They have both already completed over 100 combined hours of training, on top of their many years of county government experience fostered during the COVID-19 pandemic. This marks the first time the Bureau will have formally trained PIOs occupying the role, particularly during major emergencies that require EOC activation. Their expertise will be invaluable in ensuring effective communication during emergencies and enhancing public safety awareness in and around Putnam County.

“We are excited to have Chris Formisano and Shanna Siegel take on these critical roles as Public Information Officers,” said Bureau of Emergency Services Commissioner Bob Lipton. “Their combined experience and dedication to public service will greatly benefit our community, especially during times of crisis. Effective communication is key to managing emergencies, and I am confident that Chris and Shanna will excel in this capacity.”

County Executive Kevin Byrne also expressed his support for the new appointments, stating, “The safety and well-being of our residents are of utmost importance. By assigning Chris and Shanna as the Bureau’s official PIOs, we are reinforcing our commitment to transparent and timely communication. Their proven track records and extensive training will ensure that our community receives accurate and essential information during emergencies. I look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have in these roles.”

Having completed six Emergency Management Institute FEMA classes and three levels of New York State Emergency Management PIO training, Chris Formisano and Shanna Siegel will work closely with various county departments, local agencies, and community partners to coordinate and disseminate critical information. Their efforts will play a pivotal role in keeping residents informed and prepared in the event of emergencies.