Allegany College to Host Emergency Preparedness Forum Sept. 10

AARP Maryland, Allegany College of Maryland, Strongward and state and local emergency management partners will host the Western Maryland Emergency Preparedness Forum on Thursday, Sept. 10, at Allegany College of Maryland in Cumberland.

Held during National Emergency Preparedness Month, the free forum will bring together emergency professionals, local leaders, first responders and residents to share practical readiness and recovery strategies.

The event, which follows flooding in 2025 that devastated Western Maryland communities, will highlight tools and partnerships to help the region prepare for future emergencies.

"Last year's flooding showed that preparation cannot wait," said Hank Greenberg, AARP Maryland state director. "This forum will help residents and local leaders take steps to protect people, homes and neighborhoods before the next disaster."

The forum will feature two targeted sessions:

I. Local Leadership Session 

This session for elected officials, municipal staff, nonprofit leaders and other stakeholders will focus on planning, coordination, communication and recovery, including ways to support vulnerable residents.

When: Sept. 10, noon to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Thomas Welcome Center, Allegany College of Maryland
Lunch provided.

II. Prepare. Respond. Recover. Community Forum 

This public session will offer guidance on disaster preparedness, personal safety, emergency planning, insurance and recovery resources, with steps families can take now.

When: Sept. 10, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Where: Dr. Robert S. Zimmer Theater, Allegany College of Maryland
Dinner provided. Free emergency go-bags while supplies last.

Speakers include representatives from Strongward, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management, Prince George's County Emergency Management, and local fire and rescue leadership.

"Preparedness is a shared responsibility," said Jonathan Dayton, president of the Allegany-Garrett Counties Volunteer Fire Rescue Association and community relations specialist with Maryland Wellness. "This forum will help turn hard-earned lessons into actions that make communities safer and more resilient."

Admission is free, but registration is requested. Participants may attend either session or both.

For more information or to register, visit the event registration page  or call 877-926-8300.

 

About AARP Maryland

AARP Maryland works to empower people to choose how they live as they age, advocating for financial security, healthy living, age-friendly communities, and support for family caregivers throughout the state.