2012 Orange County Hurricane Expo Provides Vital Preparedness Information

The start of hurricane season is just a few weeks away and Orange County wants residents to "Be Ready." The Orange County Office of Emergency Management will host a free Hurricane Expo with various hands-on training activities during a two day event at the Orlando Fashion Square.

• Orange County Hurricane Expo 2012 - "Be Ready"

• Friday, June 1, and Saturday, June 2

• Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

• Main Entrance of Orlando Fashion Square, 3201 E. Colonial Drive

• Parking: Corner of Herndon Avenue and Colonial Drive (Dillard's parking area)

Attendees will learn from emergency response and recovery experts from the National Weather Service and Federal Emergency Management Agency who will answer questions and provide information on how to survive and deal with floods, high wind damage and property loss. Participants will also learn how to "track" storms, pack a disaster kit, administer first aid, perform compression only CPR and prepare an emergency plan for their pets.

Hurricanes can bring hazards in many forms and while Orange County is located in Central Florida it certainly isn't insulated from the possible effects of a storm. From high winds to tornadoes and flooding, hurricanes can present a variety of severe weather. Your ability to plan ahead will be your best protection against injury and damage to your home and property.

The first 100 people to attend the Hurricane Expo each day and complete a "Disaster Bingo" card by visiting each emergency services table will receive a free NOAA weather Radio OR a Preparedness Kit.

Hurricane season begins June 1 and ends November 30, 2012.