FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 29, 2026
Contact:
Derek Sands
DSands@BergenCountyNJ.gov
BERGEN COUNTY OEM DISTRIBUTES BLEEDING CONTROL KITS TO LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES AHEAD OF 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco, Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella, and representatives from local law enforcement agencies today joined the Bergen County Office of Emergency Management at the East Rutherford Police Department for the distribution of Bleeding Control Blast Kits to police departments serving communities surrounding MetLife Stadium.
The kits, purchased by Bergen County OEM using FY23 Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant funding provided through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, will enhance emergency response capabilities in municipalities expected to experience increased activity during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The total cost of the equipment purchase was approximately $12,732.
The distribution is part of Bergen County’s ongoing preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will bring eight matches, including the Final, to New York New Jersey Stadium in the Meadowlands. County officials continue to work closely with local, state, and federal partners to ensure the region is prepared to safely host one of the world’s largest sporting events.
“As we prepare to welcome the world to Bergen County in just a few weeks, public safety remains our highest priority,” said Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco, III. “Hosting eight World Cup matches, including the Final, presents a tremendous opportunity for our region, but it also requires careful planning and coordination. These kits provide our local law enforcement agencies with additional tools to respond quickly and effectively during emergencies, and they are another example of the proactive steps Bergen County is taking to ensure we are ready for this historic event.”
“The Sheriff’s Office is proud to work alongside Bergen County OEM, our municipal police departments, and our public safety partners to strengthen emergency preparedness throughout the Meadowlands region,” said Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton. “While we hope these kits are never needed, having them available helps ensure that first responders can provide immediate life-saving care in critical situations. Preparation and partnership are essential as we get ready to host visitors from around the globe.”
“The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring unprecedented attention and activity to our region, making preparedness and coordination more important than ever,” said Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella. “Today’s distribution reflects the strong partnerships that exist among Bergen County’s law enforcement and public safety agencies. By investing in training, equipment, and regional planning, we are helping ensure that our first responders have the resources they need to protect residents and visitors alike.”
The Bleeding Control Blast Kits contain specialized medical supplies designed to help first responders quickly treat traumatic injuries and severe bleeding during emergency situations. The equipment will be distributed to police departments serving municipalities in close proximity to MetLife Stadium and the Meadowlands Sports Complex.
County officials noted that today’s distribution is just one minor component of a broader World Cup preparedness strategy that includes interagency planning, emergency management coordination, public safety training, transportation planning, and ongoing collaboration with state and federal partners.
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