Preparedness fair a success

To the editor:

The fourth annual Mat-Su Emergency Safety Fair at the Mat-Su College Saturday was a great success and service to our community.

The effort was coordinated through the partnership of Mat-Su Borough Emergency Services and the North America Outdoor Institute and I’d like to publicly thank Bea Adler and Debra McGhan, and all the others who assisted, for their commitment and hard work to help ensure individuals and families in Mat-Su are prepared for a disaster.

More than 300 residents attended the fair and had the opportunity to acquire the skills and supplies needed to survive emergencies and catastrophes, which Alaskans know can happen in the blink of an eye. So many exhibitors, sponsors, and individuals pitched in to make the 2012 Emergency Safety Fair a great event. Even though I can’t name them all to express appreciation, without their participation, the event would not have been the success that it was.

I’d be remiss, however, without pointing out that Mat-Su College provided the space for the fair, a wonderful central location for Palmer and Wasilla residents. Other communities in the Mat-Su Valley are forming local Safe and Sound fairs for their neighborhoods. This is a great way for neighbors to help each other if an emergency arises.

Go to matsugov.us/eoc/ for excellent tips or contact naoiak.org/index.php to form one in your neighborhood. September is National Emergency Preparedness Month.

If we take responsibility for ourselves and our families, we’ll be ready to help others — and that’s what community is all about. Get prepared Alaska!

Rep. Shelley S. Hughes

District 13

Palmer