Washington County to Host Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Expo

Washington County residents are invited to a significant public safety event designed to equip them with essential knowledge and resources for a variety of emergencies. The 2025 Emergency Preparedness Expo will be held on September 27, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Washington County Public Safety Training Center. This free, family-friendly expo aims to foster community resilience by offering practical skills, interactive demonstrations, and access to numerous emergency response and support services.

The expo is structured to provide an immersive and engaging experience, moving beyond traditional informational formats. Attendees will have opportunities to participate in hands-on activities and explore a wide array of exhibits. A special attraction for younger visitors will be a meet and greet featuring characters from PAW Patrol, offering an engaging way to introduce children to safety concepts. The event emphasizes the practical application of emergency preparedness through demonstrations and training sessions.

A notable feature of the expo is the extensive list of participating organizations, representing a broad spectrum of emergency response and community support entities. Among the key participants are agencies offering direct life-saving skills. The 911 Simulator and CPR & Stop the Bleed Training sessions are designed to provide attendees with practical, immediate skills. The presence of the American Red Cross and the Washington County Emergency Services further underscores the event’s focus on direct emergency aid and community-level support networks.

Specialized public safety and law enforcement agencies will also be present. The Maryland Defense Force, Maryland State Police, and the Washington County Sheriffs Office will offer insights into their roles in security and law enforcement. Fire departments, including Williamsport Fire Truck 2 and Fairplay Fire Department, will showcase their services. Additionally, organizations such as the National Weather Service and Maryland Forestry will provide critical information regarding environmental hazards and natural disaster preparedness.

The expo also highlights public health and welfare resources available to residents, including the Health Department and the Department of Social Services. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children will also be present to inform the public about resources available for vulnerable populations and child safety.

Interactive exhibits will play a significant role in the expo’s educational approach. The Washington County Safety Demo Trailer and the Potomac Edison/First Energy Demo Trailer are expected to offer hands-on learning experiences. Unique demonstrations, such as the Roll Over Simulation, are planned to illustrate critical emergency response scenarios.

The event also acknowledges the role of local businesses and community organizations in emergency preparedness. AT&T/FirstNet will be present, highlighting the importance of local infrastructure and communication networks. Hagerstown Masonic Lodge 217 will also participate, offering their child ID program.

The 2025 Emergency Preparedness Expo is intended to serve as a community-building initiative, providing residents with direct access to professionals and volunteers dedicated to public safety. The event aims to empower individuals to take a more active role in their personal safety and that of their families by offering a comprehensive overview of available resources and practical preparedness strategies. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the collaborative efforts involved in disaster response and community resilience.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from a Washington County Government and Washington County Division of Emergency Services.

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