Emergency Expo planned Saturday at Menard Center

As hurricanes continue to bear down on the U.S. we are reminded that September is National Emergency Preparedness month. To help Alaskans prepare, the Mat-Su Local Emergency Planning Committee,with support from AARP Alaska, will host the ninth annual free Emergency Preparedness Expo Saturday, Sept. 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Menard Sports Center, 1001 S. Clapp Street, Wasilla.

This year’s event will be bigger and more extensive with live demonstrations, hands-on training, kit exhibits and suppliers, poster contest, door prizes, special awards and much more. In addition to gathering information, residents will have the opportunity to purchase supplies for their emergency kit, plus take part in exercises and experiences that will help get you, your family, friends and neighbors prepared for a wide range of potential disasters or emergencies.

What does emergency preparedness mean to you? Youth ages 5 to 18 are invited to draw a picture and show their community in the ‘Preparedness Poster Contest.’ All entries earn a free ice cream cone from McDonald’s. The top people’s choice award in five age divisions will also receive a three day, four person ‘grab and go bag,’ a certificate of community service, and a special award presentation with the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Mayor and Assembly. The poster contest is made possible with support from the Mat-Su Health Foundation and McDonald’s.

If you’re new to Alaska or been here for years, come be part of the preparedness experience to learn or brush up on skills and check your preparedness level. Participants will have the opportunity to respond and test their skills. Professionals will be on hand to provide assistance and training.

Emergencies and disasters are not a matter of ‘if’ but ‘when.’ Don’t wait. This is your opportunity to ensure your family has the supplies, skills and plan you need to make any adversity an inconvenience and not a tragedy. Whether it’s an earthquake or an avalanche, don’t just talk about getting prepared, take the steps to ensure you are ready. Attend this free community expo made possible thanks to AARP Alaska, the Mat-Su Health Foundation, Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union, the Alaska Department of Public Safety and more than 40 agencies, organizations and companies.