In a move to streamline help from Alaska to New York and Virginia, the Alaska Division of Emergency Services has begun compiling a list of specialized equipment and capabilities that could be used in the ongoing relief and recovery effort, Gov. Tony Knowles announced today.

"The National Governor's Association (NGA) has asked all states to identify unique or specialized resources that may be helpful in the current recovery efforts in New York City and Washington, D.C.," Knowles said. "Like others around the country, Alaskans have given generously in response to this national tragedy and compilation of this list is another meaningful way to aid in this effort and prepare for future emergencies."

The Division is looking for such specialized resources as DNA testing labs, ground penetrating radar, and the like.

"We're looking for equipment and capabilities that may be uniquely found in Alaska that might significantly enhance the ongoing recovery efforts," said Major General Phil Oates, commissioner of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. "We're seeking resources that are not already part of the national data base of emergency resources that are maintained by the military and by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)."

The information will be maintained in a database by the NGA and shared with FEMA.

Following the attacks last week, Knowles immediately offered to send Alaska search and rescue teams and other resources to the affected states as needed. To date, none have been requested, but an experienced emergency services manager has been sent to New York to provide relief in staffing the emergency operations center that has been open non-stop since the attacks on September 11.

Any business or industry that have equipment, supplies, or capabilities that may fit this category are urged to call the Alaska Division of Emergency Services at 428-7100 in Anchorage, or statewide at 1-888-462-7100 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m