WHITWELL, Tenn. - Marion County residents have been caught off guard more than once when disasters have struck the area.
Now, county officials are stressing the importance of being prepared for any emergency by hosting the second annual Disaster Preparedness Expo at Whitwell City Park today from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CST.
Brenda Payne, a representative with the Marion Disaster Animal Response Team, said the expo is an important opportunity for county residents to prepare their homes, businesses and communities for any type of emergency, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.
She said the event will take place regardless of weather, and admission is free.
Erlanger's Life Force helicopter is scheduled to appear at the expo if the weather permits.
"I've put in a request for no rain, but we'll have to wait and see what the good Lord decides to give us," Payne said.
The Marion County Commission voted recently to declare Sept. 1-7 Disaster Preparedness Week in the county.
F.W. Lundy, chairman of the Marion Local Emergency Planning Committee, said the event would include hands-on exhibits, training and activities.
The Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative will provide one of those important training tools, Payne said.
That exhibit teaches adults and children about the danger of fallen power lines after a storm.
"They've preached that in the past," Payne said. "They don't preach it anymore. They show you what happens, and it leaves a lasting impression. It will literally, excuse the pun, shock the pants off of you."
Attendees also will be able to learn about emergency vehicles, financial planning, food storage, pet protection, safety kits, ham radio usage and more.
For more information, call Robert Payne at 423-658-2006 or visit www.facebook.com/mctndart.
Ryan Lewis is based in Marion County. Contact him at ryanlewis34@gmail.com.