If disaster strikes, will you be ready? Joe Partridge, an experienced emergency manager, will discuss the disasters that could occur in Central Oregon and what you can do to prepare yourself, your family and your community to respond and recover if the worst happens. Participants will learn about the likelihood of various disasters and explore practical “no regrets” actions to reduce the harm that a disaster might cause. Partridge’s events at the Downtown Bend and La Pine Libraries are free and open to everyone.

Saturday, September 28, 2013 • 2:00 p.m.
Downtown Bend Library

Sunday, September 29, 2013 • 12:00 p.m.
La Pine Library

The founder of Genevieve Consulting, Partridge also focuses on the idea of using bicycles in response to major disasters. “During a disaster, being able to move around or get out of town without the use of a car could be very useful,” he says. “Disasters like Hurricane Katrina, Superstorm Sandy or the tsunami in Japan showed that sometimes the best method for evacuation is by bike.” While “active transportation” is an important component of preparedness planning, Partridge will also discuss in depth a variety of things Central Oregonians can do to best prepare for a disaster.

Joe Partridge is a skilled emergency manager with 15 years of experience, including a former post as Deputy for Planning and Preparedness with Multnomah County’s Emergency Management Division. He now heads Genevieve Consulting, a Portland-based emergency management planning consultancy. He is a certified trainer for the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program.

For more information about this or other library programs, please visit the library website at www.deschuteslibrary.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats, seating or auxiliary aides) should contact Tina at 541-312-1034.