On April 9, 2025, the Perry County Courthouse Annex in downtown Marion hosted an Emergency Preparedness Workshop, designed to educate local residents on how to better prepare for emergencies and disasters. The event was sponsored by the Perry County Extension Office, Perry County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), and Project G.R.A.C.E., partnering with the goal of increasing community awareness and readiness.
The workshop covered essential topics such as creating emergency evacuation plans, assembling family emergency kits, and basic first aid. Attendees participated in interactive sessions that provided valuable insights into how to respond effectively to natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events.
One of the key highlights of the workshop was a presentation by Katrina Easley, County Extension Director (CED) of the Perry County Extension Office. Katrina spoke about the importance of preparedness in daily life and how residents can take small, actionable steps to ensure their safety. She also highlighted the resources available through the Extension Office, empowering attendees to stay informed and ready for emergencies.
“We want to make sure that every household in Perry County is equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to handle an emergency,” said Easley. “Preparedness starts with simple actions, and this workshop is all about helping our community take those first steps.”
In addition to the educational presentations, every household received a weather radio, a crucial tool for staying informed during weather-related emergencies, such as tornadoes or severe storms. The radios, which provide up-to-date weather alerts and emergency information, were donated to ensure that families have a reliable source of information when they need it most.
Representatives from the Perry County EMA and Project G.R.A.C.E. also shared valuable information, discussing their roles in emergency response and recovery. Project G.R.A.C.E. emphasized the importance of community support during crises, underscoring their ongoing efforts to assist families in need.
The event was well attended, with local residents engaging in meaningful discussions and hands-on activities.
Overall, the workshop was a resounding success, strengthening the community’s sense of preparedness and resilience while fostering a collective commitment to staying safe in the face of emergencies.
