In the aftermath of the San Bernardino shootings, a county sheriff is encouraging licensed residents to carry their guns in public.

Ulster County Sheriff Paul Van Blarcum posted on his Facebook page a message say that citizens must be prepared to act at any given moment.

Some people who spoke with News 12 in the town of Newburgh, which borders Ulster County, agree. "I think it's a wonderful idea. If someone has an expertise with a gun, I think it's a great idea," says Carol Glynn.

Sheriff Van Blarcum is catching some heat for that post from local law enforcement, including Newburgh Police Chief Daniel Cameron, who says residents should stay away from any violent situation and notify police.

News 12 attempted to speak with Van Blarcum at the sheriff's office in Kingston Friday, but he was not in.