In recent years, Harlan County has faced numerous natural disasters, such as flooding, snow storms and wildfires.  These events also led to power and water outages.  

With September being National Preparedness Month, the Harlan County Extension Service teamed up with the Harlan County Emergency Management to host a Disaster Preparedness informational workshop. During the workshop, participants learned of ways to prepare for disasters that may arise.  The tips included making a plan, storage of extra water and food and making sure all family and household members know where all items are located, just to name a few.  

Also, disaster preparedness informational tips were provided at least twice per week via the office social media page.  A timely article was placed in the local newspaper to make readers aware of the things they could do.  An informational publication with ways to prepare was placed in public places such as city hall, libraries and the extension office.  

The social media tips were shared numerous times by individuals and the emergency management.  Also, a participant that attended the informational workshop asked for ways on how he could join a local fire department to help volunteer his services.