Prepared

Prepared

Contributed by Debra McGhan

What do you do when your entire world flips upside down? When everything you had or were doing changes in just one day? Maybe in the blink of an eye? So many who have lived in Alaska for decades often talk about the years before the 1964 earthquake, and then life after. That day, that disaster, it changed the lives of thousands of Alaskans who still live with the sharp memory of that event. Disasters do that to people.

Ask anyone who lived through that earthquake, a wildfire, a winter windstorm that cut the power for days or weeks, or a massive flood. There is life before and then the rebuilding of a life after. For those who prepare, this transition has proven much easier and far less tragic.

“Planning for a wide variety of scenarios that could happen, makes what does happen far more manageable,” said Bea Adler, retired Matanuska-Susitna Borough Emergency Services Coordinator. “Instead of a total tragedy, these events become an inconvenience that can be endured and worked through.”

September is National Emergency Preparedness Month. We are reminded that emergencies and disasters can strike at any second with little or no warning. Do you and your family have a plan? Do you have the supplies needed if you must shelter in place? What if you must bug out and evacuate. Do you have a backpack with critical supplies and medications you can grab on the run? Do you have enough water to provide a gallon of water per day per household member?

For the past 15 years, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Emergency Services and more than 70 other agencies, nonprofit organizations and businesses have come together to help residents and visitors get prepared for a wide array of emergencies and disasters. From avalanches to wildfires, winter windstorms to earthquakes, Alaskans are vulnerable and are wise to be prepared.

"This year's event will be the 16th annual and will include many of the attendees’ favorites like the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Earthquake Simulator, rescue dogs, and hands-on CPR training, along with new programs like a Backcountry Prepared workshop," explained Talon Boeve, Mat-Su Borough Emergency Operations Center Specialist. "The event is free and a great place to interact with experts to learn about all the resources available here in the Mat-Su Borough. You can expect lots of hands-on activities for all ages," said Boeve. "Our goal is to continually add to the training opportunities at the Expo and have them appropriate for a variety of interests, ages, and skill levels." 

You can also help your children understand what disasters and emergencies are and what they can do to help their family prepare. Have them draw a picture of what ‘Being Prepared’ means to them and bring their drawing to the expo. All entries receive a free McDonald’s ice cream with the top people’s choice in five age divisions earning a three-day emergency backpack from the American Red Cross, a cash gift card thanks to the Mat-Valley Federal Credit Union, plus a community service award presented by the Mat-Su Borough Assembly.

“I’ve been in some pretty sketchy situations,” said Mike Buck, Executive Director of Alaska Safe Riders, “and being prepared has made all the difference in a positive outcome.” Bring yourself, your friends, and your family to the 16th annual Mat-Su Emergency Preparedness Expo at the Menard Sports Center on Saturday, September 28, 2024, between 10am and 3pm and discover lots of ways to be prepared and connect with critical resources.

Alaska Safe Riders will be hosting a Prepared for the Alaska Backcountry Workshop, made possible with support from the Alaska Department of Public Safety, Division Alaska State Troopers, and the Mat-Su Health Foundation, from 1-2pm at the Expo. All attendees at the workshop will receive the Alaska Backcountry Prepared decal and a chance to receive an Iron Dog helmet, goggles or other safety equipment. Space is limited. Learn more and reserve your spot at https://alaskasaferiders.org/events/

You can get all the details about the full Expo at https://ready.matsugov.us