A seminar Thursday in Demopolis will help the city be ready in case of a future disaster.

A disaster readiness program was put on by Sherry Crush and Doug Cooper of the Mobile (Ala.) Fire and Rescue.

Demopolis Fire and Rescue and Demopolis Police Department listened to tips to be ready in case of severe storms, like the tornado that came through Demopolis on Christmas Day.

“This meeting was definitely helpful,” Demopolis Fire Chief Tommy Tate said. “A lot of the younger firemen had some questions and there’s a lot we can take away from this meeting.”

He said one of the things he will focus on will be improving the mapping system.

Crush spoke about having an emergency operations plan, identifying buildings that might look totally different after a storm and how to take care of displaced victims.

She also spoke to officials about ensuring that their families were save in the event they have to work during a disaster.

Another topic was keeping adequate status updates as the department works areas after a storm, so if outside resources are needed they will have up-to-date information.

The representatives from Mobile also told stories of previous disasters they have assisted with including the Tuscaloosa tornado, Hurricane Katrina and others.

Tate said city officials have been meeting every other month to focus specifically on disaster readiness.

“Hopefully we won’t need it,” he said. “But, if we do, we will be prepared.”