Leon County Teaches Disaster Preparedness to Record Turnout
Yesterday, Leon County Government hosted its Citizen Engagement Series on disaster resilience as part of its ongoing commitment to keep the community safe and resilient. The County convened nonprofit partners, preparedness experts, public safety officials, and other community members to discuss building community preparedness and resilience in response to both man-made and natural disasters.
“A community is only as prepared as its citizens and neighborhoods are,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Bill Proctor. “That’s why these Citizen Engagement events are so important as we head deeper into hurricane season. Be prepared now before disaster strikes!”
Created in 2012, Leon County’s recurring, nationally award-winning Citizen Engagement Series continues to engage citizens in new and interesting ways. This year’s Disaster Resilience Edition of the Citizen Engagement Series featured hands-on activities and demonstrations which placed critical disaster preparedness information front of mind. The interactive program gave hundreds of citizens a chance to step behind the scenes and learn how to prepare for disasters with local public safety experts.
“At Leon County Government, we know firsthand the importance of resilience in the face of disaster,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “The continuous efforts of County staff and community partners that work together before, during and after a disaster is essential to keeping citizens safe and informed.”
This event reflects Leon County’s continued commitment to building a #HurricaneStrong community. As part of these preparation efforts, Leon County launched LeonReady.com, a hub of resources to help citizens, families, and neighborhoods prepare for disasters. This included the introduction of the County’s Neighborhood Readiness Trainings, specifically created to help unincorporated communities prepare for hurricane season.
“Every emergency gives us the knowledge and opportunity to build a more resilient community ahead of the next storm,” said Leon County Director of Emergency Management Kevin Peters. “This commitment to learning and building resilience led to Leon County being named the nation's first #HurricaneStrong community.”
In preparation for the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season, Leon County partnered with Elder Care Services to deliver 100 buckets filled with starter supplies to those in critical need. The County also distributed the County’s 2022 Disaster Survival Guide at the beginning of June. Printed copies of the guide are available at County and City facilities. An online version can be found at HaveAHurricanePlan.com.
For more information, contact Mathieu Cavell, Leon County Community and Media Relations, at (850) 606-5300 / CMR@LeonCountyFL.gov.
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| Emergency Management Director Kevin Peters starts the program with a hurricane preparedness presentation. |
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| Leon County's EMS teaches live-saving skills citizens can use when faced with a medical emergency. |
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| Citizens learn tips to home preparedness by filling a 5-gallon bucket with important supplies. |
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