Washington County Declares September Citizens’ Emergency Preparedness Month

Hagerstown, MD – Washington County has officially designated September 2026 as Citizens’ Emergency Preparedness Month, a move aimed at underscoring the critical role residents play in ensuring their own safety and the community’s resilience in the face of emergencies. The proclamation, presented to the Washington County Office of Emergency Management, aligns with the national observance of Preparedness Month and encourages individuals and families to proactively develop plans and assemble necessary resources.

The initiative highlights that preparedness is a shared responsibility, with citizens forming an integral part of the county’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from various disasters. By taking steps before an event occurs, residents can significantly contribute to their personal safety and reduce the burden on emergency services. The Office of Emergency Management is urging residents to create comprehensive emergency plans, build essential supply kits containing items like food and water for at least three to five days, and ensure they have multiple methods for receiving emergency alerts. This includes making provisions for household pets.

To further facilitate these preparedness efforts, Washington County will host a free, family-friendly Emergency Preparedness Expo on Saturday, October 10th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Public Safety Training Center. This event will provide an invaluable opportunity for residents to connect with local agencies, organizations, and community partners. Attendees can expect to gain information and participate in hands-on activities related to emergency planning, public safety, health and wellness, and fire safety. The expo aims to equip individuals of all ages with knowledge and resources to enhance their preparedness.

The Washington County Office of Emergency Management, in collaboration with various county departments and community partners, actively works throughout the year to educate the public and bolster emergency readiness. This ongoing effort supports the county’s first responders and aims to create a more resilient community. Residents are encouraged to visit Ready.gov or the Washington County Office of Emergency Management website for more information on preparedness and to sign up for the county-specific alert system, WashCo MD Alerts, at https://www.washco-md.net/emergency-management/washcomdalerts/.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Washington County Government

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