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AWARE Academy About the Program The results of a survey administered after  September 11, 2001 indicated that the citizens of  Anchorage wanted more community involvement in emergency response.   According to the study, one out of every five  Anchorage residents (21%) felt more “community involvement and keeping the public informed would help the municipality be better prepared for an emergency.”   Some residents asked for hands-on training so they could be prepared to care for their families and neighbors in an emergency.  As a result, the Municipality of Anchorage (MOA) developed  AWARE –  Anchorage Watchful, Alert and Ready for Emergencies.   In January, 2002, the MOA hosted the first AWARE Academy, a pilot program designed to teach citizens the basics of disaster preparedness.    The AWARE Academy is a free, 2-hour disaster preparedness class designed to teach basic emergency response strategies to Anchorage residents.  The lessons are designed for citizens with little or no background in emergency response.  The program began in January, 2002 with a goal of training 1,000 Anchorage residents in four months.  Classes were held on Saturdays for the general public and upon request by local businesses and community groups.  Classes can now be brought to the local businesses, community groups and neighborhoods.  Curriculum creators used FEMA’s Community Emergency Response Team standards as a guide while creating a customized curriculum focused upon Anchorage-specific risks such as earthquakes, wildfires and extreme weather.  The curriculum includes an overview of municipal resources and emergency response plans, as well as a review of the state and federal resources available to assist in an emergency situation. AWARE Academy graduates leave the class with an understanding of the types of local emergencies (both natural and man-made) that can occur, the importance of self-sufficiency, and specific recommendations for creating personal and family disaster plans.  In addition, attendees gain extra confidence in themselves and in their in their local government by learning about local emergency resources and response plans.    By March 2005, over 10,000 people have graduated from AWARE presentations and trainings.       More AWARE Academy classes are planned for Spring 2005.  Check this website for updates.

Related Links

• AWARE Academy  FAQ's Curriculum Lessons Learned • Academy Schedule • A Word from the Mayor

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