Will County EMA to Hold Community Preparedness Workshop in Plainfield

PLAINFIELD – The Will County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is hosting its second public preparedness workshop at 9 a.m. on March 22, 2025 at the Plainfield Fire District, 23748 W 135th Street, Plainfield.

The workshop, titled “When Seconds Matter: Public Preparedness Workshop,” is a free event designed to enhance disaster readiness and resilience by bringing together community members, emergency professionals, and experts to share vital knowledge on severe weather, fraud prevention, and disaster preparedness.

“Emergency preparedness should be a priority for households and businesses,” said Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant. “The information presented at this workshop will be invaluable for ensuring you know what needs to be done if a crisis occurs.”

The workshop also marks the 35th anniversary of the devastating Plainfield tornado, which struck with little to no warning as a category F5 tornado in 1990. During one of the workshop sessions, meteorologists Zachary Yack and Mike Bardou from the National Weather Service will explore the meteorology of the 1990 tornado and discuss advancements in severe weather forecasting, detection, and communication in modern day forecasting.

Other sessions include practical strategies for decision-making under pressure, recognizing and preventing disaster-related scams, and a first-hand account of emergency response efforts following the July 2024 Ranch Oaks tornado. The workshop is focused on ages 12 and up.

“Preparedness saves lives,” said Will County EMA Director Allison Anderson. “By reflecting on past disasters and applying modern strategies, we can strengthen our community’s ability to withstand and recover from emergencies.”

Attendees can also visit exhibit tables with preparedness resources and connect with local volunteer organizations. A light lunch will be provided by The Salvation Army.

Registration is required and seats are limited. To register or for more information, visit www.WillCountyEMA.org.