FLORENCE – Violent earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions are risks we don’t face here in Arizona but we live each day with a certain level of risk from emergencies.  Very recent dust storms, flooding, microbursts, hail storms and other weather-related events come easily to mind.  But do you know what to do if you were evacuated due to a chemical spill?  Do you or your employer have an emergency plan in the event of floods, fires or other emergencies?
 
On Friday, October 28 at the Central Arizona College Small Business Development Center, Pinal County Emergency Management will host its second annual Emergency Preparedness Fair from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.  The event is free.
 
Captain Frank Duarte of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and Captain Robert Lozano from Northwest Fire are slated to give a keynote presentation on the Giffords’ shooting.  Captain Duarte was the Incident Commander who coordinated the response to January’s shooting at a public gathering.  Captain Lozano was responsible for the fire and ambulance response.
  
There will be mini workshops on key topics, exhibits and hands-on demonstrations.  The day’s sessions are designed to offer something for everyone – whether it's preparing for a fire or flood to working a fire extinguisher or knowing what to do if there is a medical emergency at your work site.
 
The event is co sponsored by Central Arizona College, the Arizona Small Business Development Center and the U.S. Small Business Administration.  Presenters, booths and exhibits will cover a variety of disciplines, including:  public health, fire safety, weather safety, care for animals during emergencies, workplace violence, assisting individuals with disabilities, managing information and the media during emergencies and much more. 
 
Presentations are geared to employees, business owners and managers as well as residents who just want a better idea of what to do in an emergency.
 
Save the date and plan to attend this valuable free fair!
 
Emergency Preparedness Fair – Friday, October 28
Central Arizona College Small Business Development Center
540 North Camino Mercado
Casa Grande, AZ
8:00 AM to 2:00 PM