When thinking of first responders, park and recreation professionals are not typically the people who come to mind. However, preparing for and responding to emergencies are among the many essential responsibilities of these professionals. Whether through the provision of temporary shelter or emergency care after a natural disaster, park and recreation professionals support their communities in times of greatest need.

U.S. adults agree it is important that their local park and recreation agency should invest in their community's ability to prepare for, weather or recover quickly from natural disasters, such as heavy rain events or wildfire, emergency shelters and training staff in emergency management. For example, by installing and maintaining parks and trails designed to handle flooding after heavy rain events, investing in back-up power options so recreation/community centers may be used as emergency shelters, or partnering with organizations to train staff and assist in times of crisis.

Key Findings:

• Seventy-seven percent of U.S. adults agree their local park and recreation agency should invest in their community's ability to prepare for, weather or recover quickly from natural disasters
• Those most likely to agree that their local park and recreation agency should invest in preparing, weathering and recovering from natural disasters include:
  • Adults earning an annual income between $35,000 and $49,999 (86%)
  • Parents with children between the ages of 13 and 17 (85%)
  • Individuals living in urban areas (83%)
  • Individuals identifying as Hispanic (83%)

Interactive Tableau