Visitors to the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson on Monday, Sept. 11, will have the opportunity to learn how to better prepare and protect themselves from tornadoes, fires, floods, and other natural and man-made disasters during Kansas Preparedness Day. Governor Laura Kelly signed a proclamation Aug. 25 designating September as Kansas Preparedness Month.
“Our state and local emergency responders do a wonderful job of helping people affected by a disaster,” said Angee Morgan, deputy director, Kansas Division of Emergency Management. “However, it takes time for them to be on the scene and help everyone, particularly if it is a catastrophic event like a tornado. So, the best way to survive a disaster is to plan ahead and be prepared to be on your own for a minimum of three days. This is why we always urge Kansans to make an emergency kit for their home and vehicles, and devise and practice an emergency plan.”
Information tables and displays of emergency vehicles will be set up from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. near the Administration Building inside the entrance of Gate E-1 to provide disaster preparedness and public safety information. The public may also register for prize drawings and kids can play Preparedness Bingo.
Agencies and organizations participating in the Kansas Preparedness Day event include the Adjutant General’s Department/Kansas Division of Emergency Management/Kansas National Guard, Kansas Highway Patrol, State Fire Marshal’s Office, Kansas Forest Service, Hutchinson Fire Department, Reno County Sheriff’s Office, Reno County Emergency Management Office, Reno County Community Emergency Response Team, Reno County Health Department, Kansas Search and Rescue Dog Association, National Weather Service, Federal Emergency Management Agency, American Red Cross and the Salvation Army.
Sept. 11 is Dillons’ Dollar Day at the Fair; admission is $1 or free with a Dillons’ card.
During Preparedness Month in September, the Kansas Division of Emergency Management is also reminding the public to take part in its monthly online “Preparedness Challenge,” as well as, virtual classes, chats and challenges at www.facebook/KansasEmergency. Additional information on disaster kits and family preparedness can be found at www.ready.gov.