Hays County community members are invited to learn about preparing for disasters and safety training at the eight annual Emergency Preparedness Fair held Sept. 13 at La Verde Park, 3901 Burnham, Kyle.

The details

The preparedness fair aims to educate community members on preparing for disasters while raising funds for Hays County first responders.

“This event is about more than preparation; it’s about connection,” said Mike Jones, Hays County Office of Emergency Services director, in a news release. “The goal is to communicate the preparedness message to all residents to better protect life and property in impending and unexpected disasters, natural or manmade—an all-hazards approach.”

The event will include hands-on safety demonstrations, such as:

• Stop the Bleed
• Take 10 CPR
• Fire extinguisher training
• Recognizing signs of heat stroke and exhaustion
• Building a personalized emergency go-kit

Attendees will also be able to connect with local first responders and explore fire engines and rescue units.

The third annual Top Dawg Chili Cook-Off will also be held during the preparedness fair, with proceeds going to the Hays County Fire Chiefs Association for training and replacing lost equipment during wildfire responses. Guests can purchase a $20 wristband to sample and vote for their favorite chili.

The event will also feature live music from local acts, including local high school bands, Two Tons of Steel and the Cody Sparks Band.

Also of note

The event comes as the Central Texas region faces increased climate and weather risks, from heat to hailstorms.

The Hays County Commissioners Court recently adopted the 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan, which aims to reduce impacts of weather hazards on both people and property in the region.

Learn more

For more information visit www.haysinformed.com/preparednessfair or the event Facebook page.

• Sept. 13, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• La Verde Park, 3901 Burnham, Kyle
• www.haysinformed.com/preparednessfair