Mark your calendars for a day filled with safety, learning, and community spirit in Hays County. The Office of Emergency Services is teaming up with the City of Kyle for the 8th Annual Emergency Preparedness Fair—slated to be held on Saturday, September 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at La Verde Park, according to a Hays County news release. Mayor Travis Mitchell emphasized the fair's importance, stating, "We are proud to sponsor and participate in this unique event that offers citizens the opportunity to learn more about preparing for disasters, while raising money for our first responders."
Entry to the fair is free, and the event promises to be family-friendly with a diverse range of activities for attendees of all ages. Expect hands-on training, safety demonstrations, and vendors offering useful resources to keep your household safe during emergencies. Not just that, the fair also features live music, food, and raffles to keep everyone entertained throughout. For a hearty taste of competition, the 3rd Annual Top Dawg Chili Cook-Off invites fairgoers to sample and vote on chili for a $20 donation wristband, with proceeds benefiting local firefighter training and equipment.
"This event is about more than preparation; it’s about connection," Mike Jones, the Hays County OES director, said in the release. With an all-hazards approach, they aim to spread the message of preparedness to all community members, enhancing the security of life and property against both expected and unforeseen disasters. Whether it's taking part in the Fire Extinguisher Training or building a personalized emergency go-kit, attendees will leave not only prepared but also empowered.
Exhibits will include emergency vehicles and equipment, giving a closer look at the tools our first responders use in the face of disaster. It's an opportunity for residents, to get to know the individuals dedicated to their safety, mentioned Jones. Organizations from CERT to the Kyle Police Department will be present, highlighting the collective effort made to ensure comprehensive disaster readiness.
Local high school bands will set the musical backdrop in the morning, followed by afternoon performances from Two Tons of Steel and the Cody Sparks Band. Music lovers and chili aficionados alike have much to revel in while they brush up on lifesaving skills. To learn more about the fair, visit Hays County's official preparedness website or peek at the Facebook event page.
