EMA is ‘nerve center’ during disasters
In the event of a disaster, the EMA’s main duties are to coordinate resources, response and plans with community leaders and local government including school, hospital, fire and police officials.
In the event of any widespread emergency, the Emergency Management Agency is there to provide necessary communication to the public.
In the event of a disaster, the EMA’s main duties are to coordinate resources, response and plans with community leaders and local government including school, hospital, fire and police officials.
The EMA is also responsible for setting off the tornado warning sirens heard around the county.
“Different representatives come here in those times and we all work together to decide the best plan of action for the community,” said Scott Worsham, emergency management officer. “We then flow the information, and if we have to, request for any extra resources which may include law enforcement and public works crews.”
Worsham called the EMA “the nerve center” in an emergency situation.
“Last year after April 27, we conducted daily briefings and updates through print, television and most importantly, radio,” Worsham said.
The city of Madison does have its own emergency center, located inside the police department on Hughes Road. The center was scheduled to open April 27 of last year.
“This being the anniversary, we encourage people to not become complacent,” Worsham said. “It’s important to not only have the general non-perishable necessities, but also have a reliable out-of-state contact. Talking across town was difficult last year. If you could reach one relative out of state and tell them you’re OK, they can contact everyone else.”
The EMA advises to always have water, medication and food that could last a minimum of three days. In the event of a power outage, Worsham said a battery-powered radio is the best communication device.
Being that there are no public storm shelters in Madison County, he said it’s best to find a place below ground, in a safe room or in the lowest portion of a home.
“When a watch is issued, that’s the time to go ahead and go there. If a warning is issued, you have only minutes to react, which is not enough time to hop in a vehicle and try to drive. Already know where you’re going to go to take shelter,” Worsham advises.
