Anyone who remembers last winter’s harsh weather understands the importance of being prepared for emergencies. But how do you know what kind of preparations to make?

Getting ready for emergencies is the theme of the annual Maple Valley Emergency Preparedness Fair, which is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 10 at Rock Creek Elementary School, 25700 Maple Valley-Black Diamond Road SE.

The fair, which is free to attend, brings together experts in many facets of emergency preparedness. The fair offers informational displays, emergency preparedness demonstrations, Red Cross information, demonstrations and classes. In addition, there will be emergency kits and food for sale.

The King County Sheriff’s Office will display its emergency command vehicle, a SWAT armored vehicle and there will be a visit from Guardian One, the department’s helicopter.

Sponsors include the city of Maple Valley, Puget Sound Energy, the American Red Cross, Tahoma School District, King County, the Emergency Communications Center and the Maple Valley Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Though the fair is free, attendees are asked to bring donations of non-perishable food items for the Maple Valley Food Bank.

The fair will run in conjunction with the final day of the Maple Valley Farmers Market.