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If disaster strikes Juneau, how ready are you?

September 12, 2017 – News

As hurricanes, earthquakes and flooding continue to ravage homes and communities all over the world, preparedness is on everyone’s mind. Being prepared also applies to everyday occurrences, like a grease fire in your kitchen, a bicycle injury or an outdoor adventure gone wrong. Juneau residents can empower themselves to be ready for emergencies of all types at the Safety and Preparedness Expo taking place this Friday and Saturday, September 15 and 16 at Centennial Hall.

“We live in a community that has numerous vulnerabilities and our geographic location can slow down the arrival of outside help. Can we, as capable Alaskans, prepare now to ensure we survive daily challenges, as well as disasters, with dignity and comfort? Yes we can! The Safety and Preparedness Expo can show you how,” Emergency Programs Coordinator for the City and Borough of Juneau Michelle Brown said.

The expo is a free, family-friendly event hosted by CBJ’s Local Emergency Planning Committee, U.S. Coast Guard, and the American Red Cross of Alaska. The biennial event is an opportunity for local agencies, organizations, businesses and individuals to come together over two days to educate and motivate Juneau residents to prepare for and respond to disasters of all types.

The expo will feature more than 50 interactive exhibits and about 30 scheduled presentations, including hands-on practice using a fire extinguisher and “Citizen CPR” with Southeast Extinguisher Service, preparing pets for emergencies with Gastineau Humane Society, wilderness safety with Southeast Alaska Avalanche Center and “What to do when the freezer fails” with UAF Cooperative Extension. Both Juneau Mercantile & Armory and Sportsman’s Warehouse are offering firearm safety presentations. 4-H’s firearms safety booth will feature air rifle shooting instruction (for a small fee). At the Storyroom, people can hear live and recorded stories of survival from neighbors and community members. Once again, expo goers will be able to enter a free drawing for door prizes, like a multiday backpack with supplies, a 1-year medevac membership with Airlift Northwest or professional fire extinguishers.

The Safety and Preparedness Expo is going on at Centennial Hall, Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more info, contact Emergency Programs Coordinator Michelle Brown at 586-0371 or [email protected].