Missouri Seismic Safety Commission - Strategy 3.1

STRATEGY:

Review the earthquake response component of the statewide integrated emergency management system.

ACTION:

Develop an integrated emergency management system at all levels of government and the private sector to protect life, health, property and the environment following an earthquake event.

RESULT:

Improved emergency response through more effective utilization of resources and personnel.



Background

The concept of an integrated emergency management system focuses on the development of individual emergency response plans by State and local government agencies and public and private organizations in which the interrelation, coordination and cooperation of the various entities are considered. Unlike other natural disasters, such as floods or tornadoes, a major earthquake will occur without warning and the damage to structures, bridges and utilities will be much more widespread and severe.

One tool which can be utilized to enhance the emergency management system is a comprehensive database of resources (both public and private) throughout the State that could be called upon in an emergency. The State Emergency Management Agency has developed such a database; however, many local government agencies do not currently have access, due to computer equipment limitations.

Implementation

Promote the concept of an integrated emergency management system to local emergency response coordinators, government agencies and public and private entities through seminars. Place special emphasis on response planning for earthquake events, to ensure that responders and critical facilities are functional after such an event.

Support the establishment of a statewide computer network for emergency response and the acquisition of computer equipment by local emergency response coordinators to enable access to the network.

Responsible Agencies:


Local, municipal and county governments
State Emergency Management Agency, Department of Public Safety (SEMA-DPS)
Volunteer and professional organizations
Private industry

Last Changed April 28, 1997