In the face of increasing disasters, historic communities must be prepared—not just with emergency plans, but with strong public engagement strategies. This session equips historic preservation professionals with the tools to effectively communicate disaster risk, involve community members in defining the value of their historic places, and develop tailored preparedness strategies specific to hazard type. Participants will learn how to identify key partners and stakeholders, explore diverse methods for informing the public, and influence decision-makers to prioritize preservation in adaptation efforts. Join us to discover how public awareness can be a powerful tool in safeguarding historic sites for future generations.