Westchester officials announced Monday that they are preparing to handle an outbreak if the deadly avian bird flu hits the county. Scientists watching migration patterns think it will be only a matter of time before the virus lands on U.S. shores. If it does, Westchester?s Emergency Services Commissioner Tony Sutton warns first responders will be taxed to the limit. Sutton told members of the Legislature's Public Safety Committee that the avian flu would be treated as a public health emergency. Officials say information can be one of the best defenses. County Legislator Gordon Burrows suggested Westchester compile an informational pamphlet to handle things from health emergencies to mundane recycling pick-ups. The county does have an alert system in place where residents can get an e-mail or a text message on their cell phone if there is an emergency.

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