Updates + Notices
Read below for updates on the agency, our projects, and our data, as well as timely public health notices or statements
Falls Prevention Awareness Week
Falls Prevention Awareness Week is September 21–25, 2026. Falls are not a normal part of aging, and many can be prevented through physical activity, medication review, regular vision and hearing care, and changes that make the home safer.
Fall prevention is especially important in Cortland County. The 2025 Cortland County Community Health Assessment reports that the county’s age-adjusted hospitalization rate for falls was approximately 44.7 per 10,000 residents in 2022, compared with 37.1 statewide.
The Cortland County Healthy Homes Program helps eligible renters and homeowners identify and address health and safety hazards in their homes. Adults age 62 and older are one of the program’s target groups. Eligible households may receive a free, in-depth home assessment and, depending on what is found and program approval, improvements to address fall hazards and other concerns at no cost.
A Warm Approach to Winter: SAFE365 Tips for Supporting Teens
Winter brings shorter days and more time indoors, creating natural opportunities for families to strengthen connections and support teen well-being. The SAFE 365 W-I-N-T-E-R framework outlines six practical strategies parents can use all season long, from talking openly about risks, to staying aware of what is accessible at home, to setting consistent rules and making time for fun. Local youth survey data from Cortland and Tompkins Counties shows that strong communication, clear expectations, and regular family time all play a powerful role in reducing substance use and supporting teens’ mental health. Explore how these simple, everyday actions can help teens stay safe, engaged, and connected this winter.
Introducing S.A.F.E. 365: A Collaborative Platform for Family and Youth Well‑Being
The Rural Health Institute of New York (RHI) has launched S.A.F.E. 365: Substance-Free Activities and Family Engagement, a new regional platform designed to help families, youth, and community partners access reliable resources and prevention tools that promote health and safety all year long.
Available at safe365ny.org, the site connects parents and caregivers to practical parenting guides, local events, and evidence-based programs that support positive youth development. Families can also find seasonal campaigns focused on wellbeing, prevention, and community connection.
Through S.A.F.E. 365, RHI continues its mission to strengthen family communication, reduce risky behaviors, and build healthier rural communities 365 days a year.
Hosting Safe Halloween Parties
Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for teens and families, but it can also bring risks like underage drinking and substance use. Local youth surveys in Tompkins and Cortland counties show that strong family connections and safe hosting practices make a big difference. By setting clear expectations, keeping gatherings supervised, and offering fun, alcohol-free activities, parents can help ensure celebrations stay positive and safe.
Find practical tips and resources for safe hosting this Halloween at safe365ny.org
Candy, Costumes, and Caution: Tips to Stay Safe this Halloween
Leading up to every Halloween, we see a spike in worries around children’s safety. There are some very real safety concerns, but the biggest worry for most parents should be cars.