Emergency Preparedness Expo Announced

Emergency Preparedness Expo announcedBy Tyler Pruett

tyler@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.— The Dekalb County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is proud to announce they will be hosting the Dekalb County Disaster Preparedness EXPO on Feb. 13, 2016. The EMA will be hosting the event in conjunction with the Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). The event will take place at the VFW Fairgrounds in Fort Payne from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

The expo will kick-off the Alabama Severe Weather Awareness Week, which is always the third week in February. Severe Weather week concludes with a tax-free weekend on Feb. 20-21, when citizens can purchase preparedness items such as generators, batteries, coolers, extension cords, and other items designated.

The expo will give Dekalb residents a chance to find out more information on disaster preparedness and even shop to prepare for such events. Vendors will be on-site from the community that offer goods and services in preparing for disaster. The EMA hopes to have businesses that sell, “storm shelters, generators, food, and survival supplies” all in attendance.

Local “prepping” organizations have also been invited to share information about membership and long-term plans for families. Also, members of the Community Emergency Response Teams (C.E.R.T.) will discuss their group and how the public can get involved. The Dekalb County EMA will also be making a presentation on overall emergency preparedness.

VOAD works directly with volunteer organizations to see that the community needs are met during a potential disaster. They are also the primary source to find volunteer work during a disaster and will be providing information to the public on how to get involved with organizations such as The Salvation Army, Baptist Disaster Relief, Methodist Disaster Relief and others.

One feature event will include a Weather Spotter Class offered by the National Weather Service. The class will be held from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Chief Meteorologist Jason Simpson of WAFF 48 in Huntsville is also expected to be in attendance to provide information on severe weather. Attendees will be able to have their weather radios programed by EMA staff.

The highlight of the event will be the “Arrive Alive” simulator, which will allow drivers to feel what it’s like to operate a vehicle while impaired. The simulator replicates what driving is like while either texting or intoxicated.

The is no charge for admission to the expo. Seminars and simulations are also free to the public.