Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

Congregation Beth Am in Longwood, Florida, in conjunction with the Orlando Church of Christ, the Seminole County Department for Emergency Management, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office and the Seminole County Department of Public Safety will host a Disaster Preparedness program on Sunday, Aug. 10, from 1 to 3 p.m. This will immediately follow a congregational Open House for prospective members starting at 10 a.m.

Steven Lerner from the Emergency Response Team will discuss hurricane and fire preparedness. The Office of Emergency Management is responsible for performing technical work in the development, implementation, and management of countywide disaster response, recovery, mitigation, risk reduction, prevention, and preparedness. They are responsible for the development and maintenance of plans that include evacuation, disaster housing, emergency shelters, debris management, damage assessments, and homeland security. The Office also provides guidance to its municipalities and support agencies on the development of disaster management plans.

Teaching citizens how to prepare themselves for disasters is critical to the resilience of Seminole County. Emergency management staff provide hours of lectures to student groups, homeowners associations, faith-based organizations, businesses, and various institutions and associations. These workshops and seminars focus on disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation techniques. Throughout the year, the Office provides informational brochures and guides, establishes preparedness fairs and events, produces public service announcements and manages the County’s preparedness website (www.prepareseminole.org). 

Debbie Davids, president of Congregation Beth Am, stated, “I am pleased that we are able to offer this vital programming to the community. At Beth Am we are committed to Tikkun Olam, healing the world, and teaching others how to prepare in the event of a disaster is part of this greater mission.”

All residents of Seminole and Orange counties are encouraged to attend to hear this essential presentation on Sunday, Aug. 10 at 1 p.m. Children are welcome to stay after the Open House and view the Seminole County fire truck that will be in the Beth Am parking lot.

For more information on this event and all other activities at Congregation Beth Am consult the synagogue’s web site at http://www.CongBethAm.org or call the synagogue office at 407-862-3505.