Walton County Emergency Management Hosts Inaugural Build-A-Bucket Community Preparedness Event

FREEPORT, FL – Walton County Emergency Management (WCEM) is proud to announce the inaugural Build-A-Bucket event, a free, family-friendly preparedness fair taking place on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Hammock Bay, 1871 Great Hammock Bend, Freeport, FL.

This hands-on event brings residents together to build their own disaster kits, participate in activities, and connect with local partners and businesses who serve Walton County before, during, and after disasters. Families can look forward to:

• Building a personal disaster kit
• Touch-a-Truck experiences
• Live fire extinguisher training
• Stop the Bleed training (pre-registration required)
• Food trucks (beginning at 11 a.m.)
• Raffles, live music, and fun activities for all ages

“Preparedness is not something we can do alone; it takes the entire community,” said Jeff Goldberg, Director of Walton County Emergency Management. “The Build-A-Bucket event is about giving families the tools they need to stay safe while also highlighting the local businesses and community partners who stand beside us every step of the way. Before, during, and after a disaster, these relationships are critical to making Walton County stronger and more prepared.”

The event will also showcase the valuable partnerships WCEM has with local organizations and businesses. From response and recovery services to everyday support, these partners play an essential role in ensuring the community is ready for any emergency. Attendance is free, and all are welcome. Stop the Bleed training requires pre-registration, which can be completed by scanning the event QR code or visiting WaltonCountyEM.org.

This inaugural event would not be possible without the support of sponsors including DRC Emergency Services, SERVPRO Walton County, The Windmills at Hammock Bay, Matrix COC, Tractor Supply Co., Panhandle Weather, and the DeFuniak Springs Pilot Club. Sponsorship and booth spots are still available; contact Doug Hirsch at doug@waltoncountyem.org for more information.

###

When disaster strikes, Walton County Emergency Management is here to serve the residents, businesses, and visitors of Walton County. Our mission is Driven by integrity, service, and accountability, we collaborate with community partners, residents, and visitors to prevent harm, prepare wisely, respond effectively, and recover stronger. Through effective public education and strategic community partnerships, our vision is to empower everyone to build a safer, smarter, and stronger community—before, during, and after emergencies.

Make it a great day,