Release Date: September 12, 2008
Release Number: 1773-068
» More Information on Missouri Severe Storms and Flooding
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Even without flooding, sitting inside a cozy home during wet weather can be a great time to think about preparedness for emergency situations, state and federal officials remind Missourians.
The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) have many suggestions during September's National Preparedness Month for residents and business owners to help them be ready in the event of serious weather-rain, snow, ice or tornadoes.
"One key lesson we can take away from a disaster is the importance of being prepared to deal with adversity," said Federal Coordinating Officer Mike Karl, in charge of federal disaster recovery efforts in Missouri for FEMA. "We see time and time again that people who are prepared for disasters are able to recover more quickly from emergencies."
State Coordinating Officer Ronald M. Reynolds emphasized it is important to listen to emergency officials' warnings and instructions and to follow good intentions with action.
"No amount of pre-disaster planning works if you don't work the plan," Reynolds said. "And no plan is worth risking your life to follow if the best option is simply to get out of harm's way."
Both officials recommend taking the following steps:
It is important to stay calm in an emergency. Get as much information about the situation as possible. City, county, and state officials have developed emergency plans. In the event of an actual emergency, it's important to follow their instructions and advice. They will provide you with the latest information.
Know the risks from flooding, ice storms, tornadoes and other events
Determine the risk. Know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning or a tornado watch and tornado warning. A warning means you're headed for a real confrontation with the weather, a watch means to be on the alert for possibilities.
Reduce the potential for damage and loss.
Consider flood insurance as well as property insurance against strong winds. Review your insurance coverage with your insurance agent, and update your coverage amounts. Consider elevating utilities or appliances - even the entire home. Reinforcing the roof, windows and garage against strong winds could lessen overall damage during a storm.
To get ideas on how you can make your property more disaster-resistant, go to www.fema.gov on the Internet and click on the "Recover and Rebuild" link at the top of the page. In Recover and Rebuild, click on the "Rebuild Smarter and Stronger" link (far right photo). When working with contractors, check references and don't buy anything on impulse.
5. Inventory your home's contents, so you can document losses to your insurance company.
For sample family disaster plans and more helpful tips , visit FEMA's www.ready.gov or the State of Missouri's Department of Health and Senior Services disaster readiness pages at www.dhss.mo.gov/Ready_in_3.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 16-Sep-2008 11:54:30