Fall is a great time to start thinking about getting prepared for all your winter adventures. Alaska Safe Riders will once again be collaborating with the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Emergency Services, American Red Cross, City of Wasilla, AARP Alaska and more than 75 other exhibitors to host the 16th annual Mat-Su Emergency Preparedness Expo. In addition, the ASR team will host a Backcountry Prepared Workshop at the expo from 1-2pm, and will be out in the community hosting free workshops in schools throughout the Mat-Su Borough as part of September, National Emergency Preparedness Month.

The Expo is a free, family-friendly, interactive event designed to help everyone who lives, travels and plays in Alaska be prepared in the event of all types of emergencies and disasters. From experiencing a 9.2 earthquake, putting out a fire, performing CPR, searching avalanche debris and much more, attendants get the opportunity to participate in a host of interactive hands-on training sessions.

Children from 5 to 19 can also participate by drawing a picture of what being prepared means to them. All entries receive a McDonalds gift certificate for a free ice cream and a chance to win a three-day emergency backpack thanks to American Red Cross and a cash gift card in their age division from the Mat-Valley Federal Credit Union and Alaska Safe Riders. Winners are determined by People’s Choice. Come check out all the great drawings and vote for your favorite in each of five age divisions.

Don’t miss out! Whether you’re new to Alaska or a long-time resident, this annual event can help you prepared for all types of emergencies and disasters. Plan to attend Saturday, September 28th from 10 am to 3 pm at the Menard Sports Center in WasillaThe first 200 guests receive a special gift bag and everyone who attends the Backcountry Prepared workshop will receive a special decal and a chance to receive an Iron Dog helmet, goggles or other safety items.

Learn more here.

Learn not to burn

Learn not to Burn

Winning at the MatSu Expo

Expo attendees waiting to learn if they won a prize from ASR

Iron Dog racer Ashley Wood

Iron Dog Racer Ashley Wood talks with visitors