With recent tornado-related disasters in the South and Midwest, and still memorable tragedies in Haiti and along the Gulf Coast, Philadelphia’s Office of Emergency Management continues to take steps toward readying the city for widespread emergencies.

Deputy Director for External Affairs Joan Przybylowicz was at Tuesday night’s Lawncrest Community Association to highlight some of the services the office has, and review safety measures business and homeowners are encouraged to take. continue reading »

Joan Przyblowicz of the city's Office of Emergency Management discusses how to best prepare for an emergency as part of a presentation to members of the Holme Circle Civic Association.

Last night’s meeting of the Holme Circle Civic Association — the first since October — saw an uptick in attendance with nearly 20 people coming out to hear Joan Przyblowicz from the city’s Office of Emergency Management discuss how to best prepare for an emergency.

Along with her presentation, Przyblowicz brought handouts for residents, including a map of the Northeast’s emergency routes and a brochures detailing specific types of plans. Her purpose, she said, was to give an overall explanation of the Office of Emergency Management and her role as deputy director of external affairs. continue reading »