SOMERSET residents have a great opportunity to learn how to get prepared should disaster strike with a free action-packed disaster preparedness and emergency services expo.

The expo will be held on Saturday, 12 October at the Somerset Civic Centre in Esk between 10am and 2pm.

The event is a great opportunity for residents to speak with emergency services, council and other agencies to understand their local hazards, their impacts and what can be done to get ready ahead of a disaster striking.

This family-friendly event promises to be an exciting day filled with engaging activities including the A&M Civil Challenge – a 40 metre inflatable obstacle course, interactive displays and demonstrations, guest speakers and more.

Somerset Regional Council Mayor and Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, Jason Wendt, said disaster preparedness was everyone’s responsibility.

“You can never be too prepared for a disaster and unfortunately the Somerset region is no stranger to the impacts of natural disasters,” Cr Wendt said.

“It’s for that very reason, you need to be prepared, you need to know what to do and you need to feel confident in enacting an emergency plan that suits your family and property should disaster strike.

“This free event will help equip residents with so much vital information that they need to know ahead of a disaster and that’s invaluable. It could save their life or that of a loved one.”

There are plenty of prizes up for grabs, activities for the whole family, an opportunity to meet with various emergency services, including fire, police, ambulance, and SES teams. Learn firsthand about the critical roles they play and the services they provide to keep our community safe.

For more information about the event visit www.somerset.qld.gov.au or phone event organisers Somerset Regional Council on 5424 4000.