McKinney, Texas -- To mark National Preparedness Month this September, the City of McKinney’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has distributed more than 1,700 free emergency preparedness bags now available at two community locations across McKinney. Each year, OEM distributes the bags to educate residents about local hazards and help them take practical steps to prepare their households for emergencies.

OEM is also partnering with the John & Judy Gay Library to host a free Disaster Preparedness workshop on Tuesday, Sept. 8, where participants can build their own emergency kit. The class is open to the public, and registration is required.

In addition to OEM’s outreach efforts, City of McKinney Mayor Bill Cox issued a proclamation recognizing National Preparedness Month during the McKinney City Council meeting Sept. 1.

WHAT: The free emergency preparedness bags include materials available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, and Hindi. Depending on the language, bag contents may include:

Information about local hazards

An emergency supply checklist

Preparedness activities or educational materials

A pen or crayons

Bandages

An ice scraper

Bags are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last.

Where

John & Judy Gay Library (6861 Eldorado Pkwy.)

McKinney Senior Recreation Center (1400 S College St.)

Why

Preparing before an emergency can help residents act more quickly and make better informed decisions. These free bags provide practical information and basic resources to help households understand local hazards, identify essential supplies, and take the first steps toward creating an emergency plan.