FEMA camp to teach teens emergency prepardness

FEMA Region 10 is seeking 40 students in grades 8-12 from Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Alaska to attend a Youth Preparedness Camp in Stanwood, Wash. in August. This will be an engaging and empowering way for teens to learn about and practice for emergency preparedness. There will be a variety of exciting leadership and team-building opportunities, as well as traditional camp activities to ensure a fun week for all.

Developed under a youth engagement concept, the six-day, five-night camp, hosted and staffed by camp and emergency management professionals, will teach students how to safely assist in the aftermath of a disaster when professional responses may be delayed or limited. Subject matter experts and local emergency responders will participate in the teaching and introduce students to various emergency response professions.

“Preparedness can be fun, engaging and hands-on, which is why we’re working to provide this valuable experience to our youth; they are 25 percent of our population and 100 percent of our future,” said FEMA Region 10 Administrator, Michael O’Hare.

As part of the camp program, youth participants will identify and create a concept for a give-back project, using their new skills to improve their community’s preparedness.

The Region 10 Youth Preparedness Council, made up of youth in grades 8-12 from all four states, will participate in the camp and help lead their peers throughout the week.

Deadline to apply is March 15.

Application information is available at www.fema.gov/region-x/community-preparedness

For information contact Mike Davenport or Ilyssa Plumer at fema-r10-communityprep@fema.dhs.gov or 425-487-4943.