The Emergency Management Agency (EMA) will hold an Open House at its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) next to City Hall during Downtown Macon’s First Friday festivities on Friday, May 3, from 5:30-7:30 p.m.  

People will have a chance to tour EOC, also known as “the bunker,” learning its history, seeing what happens during severe weather, and seeing where decisions about the community’s response are made. They will also be able to leave with items needed in their home emergency response kits and other ways to prepare their families. The EMA’s Mobile Command Vehicle (MCV) will also be available to for tours.  

In addition to the tours, the EMA and NewTown are working with local businesses to offer storm-themed drinks. Not only will participating businesses offer the themed drink, they will have a large first aid kit to give away. For a list of participating businesses and the themed drinks, click here.  

This is the second time the EMA has partnered with NewTown Macon for its First Friday festivities. The first time was in September as part of Preparedness Month, and this time it is being held in advance of hurricane season, which begins June 1. During the tour, there will be specific tips and discussions on how to prepare fr hurricanes and other weather events.

“The forecast predicts more named storms and hurricanes than average this year, so we’ll definitely stress the importance of preparedness ahead of then,” says EMA Special Projects Officer Sophie Rosen. “And we definitely wanted to partner with NewTown for First Friday because of all the people it attracts Downtown.” 

“Being prepared for an emergency is essential for all our citizens and businesses, so we’re thrilled to partner with the Emergency Management Agency for the second round of Stormy Sips!” says Emily Hopkins, Vice President of External Affairs and Main Street Macon Manager with NewTown Macon. “This event is a fun and creative way to encourage Maconites to be prepared while enjoying our locally owned and operated businesses during downtown's First Friday.”