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Grand Forks AFB Emergency Management educates community schools

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ryan Sparks
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
LARIMORE, N.D. --  The Grand Forks Air Force Base Emergency Management team visited Larimore Elementary School Sept. 16, 2015.

The team is scheduled to make a total of 12 school visits during National Preparedness Month which continues through September 2015. The theme for this year is, "Don't wait, communicate!"

Shawn W. Leach, 319th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management specialist, said they will be discussing preparations and plans for natural disasters such as tornadoes, floods, winter storms, etc.

"When an emergency happens, it happens to everyone regardless of age. Mother Nature is all about equal opportunity," said Leach. "Our children need to be prepared to take action just as quickly as their parents. The basic knowledge we are providing will be shared with their siblings and family members and could eventually save their own lives or the lives of their loved ones."

Kylie Swanson, Larimore Elementary School principal, was happy to have members of Grand Forks AFB visit the school.

"It is a great opportunity for the kids to see what people in the military do and the important role they play in the community," said Swanson.

Leach echoed those sentiments.

"The U.S. Air Force has always advocated for strong community relationships," said Leach. "By being able to take this message out to our neighboring communities, it shows that the relationships currently in place are stronger than ever."

Leach said it is a joy to watch how the different age groups react and handle the information being presented to them. He said it's amazing how well the young children understand the information.

Leach has a small bit of advice for all members of the base and the community.

"Remember, it's never too late to be prepared unless you weren't," said Leach. "A good rule of thumb is, 'If you are always prepared, you are never surprised'."