11th annual Mat-Su Emergency Preparedness Expo Saturday

WASILLA — The 11th annual Mat-Su Emergency Preparedness Expo is set for Saturday at the Menard Sports Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This yearly tradition brings numerous businesses, organizations and government entities together under one roof to help Mat-Su Valley families prepare for disasters and emergencies. It’s essentially a one-stop-shop for emergency preparation.

There will be over 50 indoor and outdoor exhibits this year, featuring interactive games and demonstrations that cover topics like first aid, CPR, boat safety, smoke alarms and fire escape plans. There will also be live presentations with key note speakers addressing relevant safety topics.

This Valley was rattled by numerous natural disasters within the last year, including the Nov. 2018 earthquake and the summer wildfires. People can expect to hear several discussions related to those topics and officials will surely offer relevant information and resources to help prepare for next big quake or intense wildfire.

Attendees can circle around the expo, visit various vendors and gather emergency supplies and information. The first 100 adults will receive a free preparedness kit, and there will be door prizes throughout the event.

There will also be a chance to meet emergency service dogs like Mat-Su Search and Rescue (MATSAR) and National Crisis Response Canines (NCRC).

The Salvation Army will be offering free food for attendees.

This event is hosted by Mat-Su Emergency Management.

For more information, call 907-861-8000.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com