Learn how to be prepared for a disaster

The Walton County Preparedness Fair is on Saturday, June 2, 2012 at South Walton Court House, 31 Coastal Centre Boulevard, Santa Rosa Beach. The fair will be open to the public from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

“Every year there are numerous events geared towards these goals; this year, the Walton County Emergency Management Division of the Walton County Sheriff’s Office has coordinated these events into a one-stop shop for all-hazards. Our goal is for our citizens and visitors to be prepared for, prevent, respond and recover from all natural or manmade disasters,” said Walton County Emergency Management Director, Captain Joseph Preston.

There will be representatives from FEMA and the Florida Department of Emergency Management to answer questions. There will also be an opportunity for citizens to get up-close to the Air Heart helicopter, fire trucks, police vehicles, and a wide variety of rescue equipment, while grabbing lunch for a small fee from the Freeport Fire BBQ.
“Not only is this event a great opportunity for the parents to get a little more information, but the kids will love it. Gulf Power has this miniature town with live-wires to show how to be safe around electricity. Of course kids always love seeing the vehicles,” said Emergency Management Planner Valerie Angel.

American Red Cross will also be holding a blood drive during the fair, people can sign-up in advance by contacting Valerie Angel at 850-951-4782 or emailing her at vangel@waltonso.org. “Our goal is to have at least 40 pints by the end of the day,” Angel said.

For more information about participating in or attending the Preparedness Fair, please call Valerie Angel at (850)951-4782 or (850)401-4071 or email vangel@waltonso.org.

For Further Information Contact:
Inv. Wendy C Ammons
Public Information Officer
Walton County Sheriff’s Office
(850) 951-4707 (office), (850) 855-0299 (cell)