Town of Southampton, NY September 1, 2022 — Animal Control Officers and Fire Marshals from the Town of Southampton Department of Public Safety and Emergency Management, along with Southampton Town Police Department, participated in an awareness training at the Hampton Classic on Monday, August 29th. The staff present met with representatives from the Hampton Classic and the HEART (Humane Equine Aid and Rapid Transport) Ambulance that is onsite for the Hampton Classic. Staff learned more about the capabilities and functions of HEART.
Executive Director of the Hampton Classic Shanette Barth Cohen stated, “After almost five decades of having the Hampton Classic Horse Show in Southampton, we are excited to continue to strengthen the relationship with the Town of Southampton and provide this educational opportunity for some of the Town’s Public Safety officials.” The Hampton Classic Horse Show is one of the largest outdoor horse shows in the Unites States and draws participants and spectators from around the world.
Southampton Town Councilwoman Cyndi McNamara, said, “We are happy to host such an internationally renowned event in Southampton and are proud of the dedication of our Town Public Safety staff to try and enhance their skills in an effort to oversee a safe and successful event.” Echoing the sentiments of McNamara, Town Code Compliance and Emergency Management Administrator Ryan Murphy said, “Our Animal Control, Fire Marshal and Police staff were appreciative of the opportunity to learn more about HEART so that we can work together more effectively in the event of any emergency.”
HEART is a national organization that provides emergency transportation for injured or ill horses. HEART staff specializes in loading and transporting horses that require urgent care. The organization has an emergency response presence at several dozen high profile equine events annually including the Hampton Classic. Shanette Barth Cohen said, “Thankfully equine emergencies are rare at the Hampton Classic, but it’s good to know that our local Public Safety officials and HEART are prepared to work together if we were to experience an emergency.”
