[Press Release] : FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Small Earthquake Reminds Residents to Have a Disaster Plan

[Press Releases]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Office of Emergency Management
(573) 874-7400

Small Earthquake Reminds Residents to Have a Disaster Plan

COLUMBIA, MO (June 7, 2011) - In the wake of the 3.9 magnitude earthquake centered in east-central Missouri early this morning, the Columbia/Boone County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) advises residents to review their disaster plans and know what to do in the event of an earthquake.

While it cannot be predicted when an earthquake will strike, there are many steps you can take to prepare for one.  They include checking for hazards inside your home such as items which can fall, shatter or collapse, identifying safe places to seek shelter both indoors and outdoors, regularly reviewing earthquake reaction plans with your family, and most importantly, have disaster supplies on hand, such as flashlights, portable battery-operated radios, a first aid kit and emergency food and water. As with any disaster, it's also important to develop an emergency communication plan in case family members are separated from one another during an earthquake.

OEM recently participated in the National Level Earthquake Exercise, which resulted in the simulated activation of the Emergency Operations Center. OEM coordinated actions with City, County and private sector entities based on the developing scenarios stemming from a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in southeast Missouri.  The evaluation of that exercise is still ongoing, but OEM Director Zim Schwartze has said that much has been gleaned from the exercise that can be beneficial on a local response level.

The Columbia/Boone County Office of Emergency Management continues to encourage all citizens to be prepared for a possible earthquake as well as other disasters and emergencies. There are a number of publications available including those that address earthquakes. Links to that information can be found online at www.gocolumbiamo.com/EM.

 


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http://www.gocolumbiamo.com/CMS/pressreleases/downloadfile.php?id=22



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