Hometown Ready Emergency Management: Recent Episodes
Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
The Hometown Ready Emergency Management podcast is about all things emergency management. It is produced by the Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management with the goal of giving the public a window into the diverse and exciting world of emergency preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery. Topics range from severe weather to cyber security to disaster communications to community preparedness. We discuss emergency management careers, different aspects of public safety, and how community members can get involved in disaster preparedness. Tune in and let's all make our communities a little more hometown ready!
Hollywood made storm chasing famous, but the real thing is about much more than dramatic skies and flying debris.
In this episode, we’re joined by 417 Storm Chasers Matt Jones and Josh Avers to talk about what it’s really like to track severe weather in the Ozarks. We discuss how they forecast and plan a chase, the importance of safety and responsible storm chasing, and how their observations and storm reports can help other organizations in our community.
Whether you’re a weather enthusiast, an aspiring storm spotter, or someone who’s simply curious about how storm chasing fits into the scope of emergency management, this conversation offers a look into the science, preparation, and respect that go into every chase.
417 Storm Chasers Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574499856852
417 Storm Chasers Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/949929446544107
417 Storm Chasers Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@417StormChasers
Matt Jones Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@StormChaserMattJones
Josh Avers Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JoshAvers
Tiktok: @417stormchasers
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
What happens when the emergency isn’t just happening in the hospital, but to the hospital itself?
From TV dramas to movies, we’ve all seen the chaos of a hospital during a crisis. But real-world healthcare emergency management looks a little different. In this episode, we take a behind-the-scenes look at how hospitals prepare for disasters, who makes the decisions when things go wrong, and how teams coordinate when the pressure is on.
Hear about the role of emergency management in healthcare, how hospitals plan for everything from mass casualty incidents to infrastructure challenges, and the teamwork required to keep patients, staff, and the community safe.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
There's a team planning for emergencies long before they occur...and most people don't even know they exist. Settle in to meet the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC).
In this episode, we sit down with members of our LEPC to talk about what the group actually does, who’s involved, and how agencies, businesses, and responders work together to prepare for hazardous materials incidents and other emergencies.
We break down the acronyms (in which there are many), explain the planning process, and pull back the curtain on the coordination that happens long before an emergency occurs.
Because good emergency response starts with coordination, collaboration, and preparation behind the scenes.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
April 29, 2025 is a day many in our community won’t forget.
In this special lookback episode, we sit down with partners from City Utilities and members of our Emergency Operations Center team to reflect on the severe weather that impacted our area and the coordinated response that followed.
From restoring essential services to managing information and resources in real time, this episode takes listeners behind the scenes to hear how agencies worked together during one of the most significant weather events our community has faced in recent years.
Through firsthand experiences and thoughtful reflection, we explore the challenges, teamwork, and lessons learned that continue to shape how we prepare for future emergencies.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Severe weather doesn’t follow a schedule...are you ready when it hits?
In this episode, we’re joined by Angelica, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, to talk through the purpose of Severe Weather Awareness Week and what it means for you.
Whether you’re a seasoned severe weather fanatic or just need a refresher, this conversation is all about turning awareness into action. We break down common misconceptions about weather in the Ozarks, share how the National Weather Service stays on top of busy storm seasons, and highlight one of the most important parts of any storm safety plan.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Airports can feel overwhelming. Security lines, turbulence, delays, and plenty of stress about what’s really happening behind the scenes.
In this episode, we sit down with Springfield-Branson National Airport personnel to talk about airport operations, community coordination, and some of the most common fears people have about flying.
We explore how airports plan for emergencies, work with public safety partners, and prioritize passenger safety every day. We also break down common misconceptions about flying and share insight into why aviation remains one of the safest ways to travel.
Whether you’re a nervous flyer or just curious how it all works, this conversation offers clarity, context, and a little peace of mind before your next trip.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Season 5 kicks off with a look at one of the most critical (and often unseen) parts of emergency management: logistics.
In this episode, we’re joined by our logistics specialist Kenny Norris to break down what it really takes to move resources, coordinate support, and keep operations running during disasters. This conversation highlights why effective logistics can make or break a response, and why the work behind the scenes matters just as much as what the public sees.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
As we close out Season 4, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the stories, lessons, and voices that shaped this chapter of the podcast. From K9 units and search-and-rescue teams to disaster mental health professionals and 911 dispatchers, this season highlighted the many roles that come together before, during, and after emergencies.
Thank you for joining us throughout Season 4 and for supporting the people and partnerships that make emergency management possible. The next season starter will be out soon!
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Disasters don’t end when the immediate danger passes.
In this episode, we explore how Missouri plans for and delivers mental health support in the aftermath of crises. We’re joined by Beckie Gierer with the Office of Disaster Services to discuss disaster mental health preparedness, Psychological First Aid training, and the statewide Crisis Counseling Program, Show-Me Hope. Learn how these services help survivors, first responders, and communities understand their reactions, reduce stress, and begin the long process of recovery, because healing after a disaster is just as important as response.
Missouri Office of Disaster Services: https://dmh.mo.gov/disaster-services
ShowMe Hope: https://www.moshowmehope.org/
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
When the Joplin tornado tore through southwest Missouri, 911 dispatchers became a critical lifeline in the middle of chaos.
In this episode, April Ford shares her firsthand experience working behind the headset during one of the deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history. From managing her team in Jasper County with overwhelming call volumes to carrying the emotional weight of voices in crisis, April offers an inside look at the unseen role dispatchers play during disasters. Learn about her experience and recovery process in the second part of our mental health series.
Stop the Threat, Stop the Stigma: https://stopthethreatstopthestigma.org/
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation: https://stopthethreatstopthestigma.org/
National Association of EMS Physicians: https://naemsp.org/2023-2-1-ems-burnout-and-mental-health/
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Not all K9 heroes chase suspects, some bring comfort when it’s needed most.
In the final installment of our Dogs in Emergency Management series, we explore the quieter, but equally vital, side of K9 work: emotional support and comfort. Pet Therapy of the Ozarks and the Springfield Police Department open up about their comfort K9 programs and how these dogs bring calm to chaos, support first responders after traumatic calls, and provide connection to community members in moments of stress. From hospital visits to station walk-throughs, discover how these compassionate canines help heal the people who help us.
Pet Therapy of the Ozarks: https://www.pettherapyozarks.org/
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
When someone goes missing, every second counts. That’s where 3RK9 steps in.
In part two of our Dogs in Emergency Management series, we meet the dedicated volunteers behind this specialized search and rescue group based in Joplin, MO. From wilderness searches to disaster response, these K9 teams train tirelessly to locate the lost and bring closure to families. Learn how 3RK9’s handlers and their dogs work alongside emergency responders, what it takes to become a certified SAR team, and why their partnership is built on more than just obedience, it’s built on trust.
The final part of this series will focus on dogs helping first responders with the emotional stress of their jobs in public service.
Check out 3RK9's website: https://www.3rk9sf.com/
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
When seconds matter, K9 units bring skills no human can match.
In part one of our Dogs in Emergency Management series, we shine a spotlight on the Greene County Sheriff’s Department K9 Unit. These highly trained dogs and their handlers play a crucial role in search and rescue, public safety, and emergency response. From rigorous training to real-world deployments, discover how K9 teams work alongside first responders to protect and serve our community.
In the following months, we will explore other ways dogs help first responders and the community in all types of emergencies.
Check out Greene County Sheriff's website: https://greenecountymo.gov/sheriff/division/special/k9.php
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
This month’s edition is a conversation with OEM’s newest employee, Sheila Driemeyer, who has joined the OEM team as our Administrative Manager. Tune in to learn how she got to emergency management and how this position aids in all types of disasters.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
In this episode, we welcome Nicolette Zangara, the new Public Information Officer for the Office of Emergency Management. Nicolette shares her background in broadcast meteorology, what brought her into the world of emergency management, and her passion for connecting communities with critical information before, during, and after emergencies.
We talk about the importance of clear communication, building public trust, and how storytelling plays a vital role in preparedness and response. Get to know the person behind the messaging and hear what’s ahead for OEM’s outreach, education, and public engagement.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
This month’s edition is a conversation with OEM’s newest employee, Josh Bakehouse, who has joined the OEM team as our Training & Exercise Specialist. Tune in to learn what this position entails and how he can help you.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
On February 8, 2025, Christian County Emergency Management and the Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management held their inaugural Volunteer Conference. The event was designed for Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), Medical Reserve Corps, Fire Corps, VIPs, and all individuals involved in emergency services volunteering. Attendees participated in informative sessions covering topics like First Aid and CPR, Mental Health, Moulage, Active Shooter Preparedness, Traffic Management, Funeral Assistance, Human Trafficking, and more.
The conference attracted 90 participants from across Missouri and even neighboring Oklahoma, all gathering at the Public Safety Center in Springfield to learn, share experiences, and strengthen their volunteer network. Stay tuned for insights into the conference from both organizers and participants!
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Join us for a special episode as we wrap up Season 3 and share exciting plans for 2025. Plus, don’t miss the debut of the brand-new OEM song, "Ready On Alert" – a perfect way to close out the season and gear up for what’s ahead!
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
This podcast episode features an interview with April Ford, Director of the Springfield-Greene County Emergency Communications Center, to explore the world of 911. The discussion centers on the evolution and current state of 911 emergency communication systems, including technological advancements like enhanced 911 and next-generation 911. Ford explains different types of 911 systems, call routing procedures, and the use of technologies such as text-to-911 and GPS location services. She also addresses common misconceptions about 911 use, such as the "pizza order" method for reporting the need for help, and the importance of providing accurate location information when calling 911. Finally, the interview touches upon the challenges of staffing and the workload of 911 dispatchers. Tune in for stories, expert insights, and a deeper understanding of the HEROES UNDER THE HEADSET.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
In this second installment of our two-part series, "Life on the Line," we delve into the critical services provided by Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Join us as we speak with professionals from CoxHealth and Mercy to explore the wide range of services they offer, their collaborative efforts, and the challenges they encounter.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and **TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management
In this first installment of our two-part series, "Life on the Line," we delve into the critical services provided by Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Join us as we speak with professionals from CoxHealth and Mercy to explore the wide range of services they offer, their collaborative efforts, and the challenges they encounter.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Join us on the March edition of the HometownREADY Podcast to learn about an often hidden but priceless gem in the emergency services world: CERT! Dive in with us as we learn about the Community Emergency Response Team and how they can help us with everything from major disasters to local special events. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts.
Are you in the know?
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
This month’s edition is a conversation with OEM’s newest employee, Ronnie Bell, who has joined the OEM team in a brand-new position, Community Engagement Specialist. Tune in to learn what this position entails and how she can help you.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
We’re back! On October 17, 2023, we announced that the HometownREADY podcast would be taking a break from recording due to construction inside the Public Safety Center. Our construction isn’t completely finished, but it is far enough along that we can ease in to publishing new episodes. We’re kicking off Season 3, Episode 1 with a radio interview our director, Larry Woods, gave in a live appearance on KWTO’s Wake Up Springfield on September 7, 2023. The recording of this interview has been provided to us courtesy of the staff at KWTO 93.3 and AM 560.
The Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management would like to thank Don Louzader and all of the staff at KWTO for highlighting our office during a widely-listened to time slot. We hope you find the interview educational and encourage you to tune into KWTO every chance you get.
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Portions of the Public Safety Center are currently under construction, including the HometownREADY Podcast Studio. We will be taking a short hiatus from the monthly podcasts but will return as soon as reasonably possible. We apologize for the disruption and look forward to getting back in the seat with our future special guests!
In the meantime, feel free to review or catch up with past episodes and don’t forget to click the subscribe button. Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldGreeneOEM
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gcoem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gc_oem/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GreeneCountyOEM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcoem/mycompany/
Prevention, Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery. The 5 main components of emergency planning. Join our host, Aubrey Johnson, as he talks to Katie Kovach (Area Municipalities Planner) and Gretchen Ruffa (City/County Planner) about all things related to emergency planning.
The Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management has been busy the past few weeks planning two special events which occur annually. The Ozark Empire Fair and the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival draw thousands of people and require a collaborative effort among public safety partners and non-governmental organizations in order to provide a safe environment for attendees. In this episode, we talk with Kevin Bosley, the General Manager of Wade Shows to discuss planning and safety for the Ozark Empire Fair. Next, we have a discussion with Laura Dannegger of Aaron Sachs & Associates along with Eric Latimer, Operations Section Chief for Springfield Fire.
The answer is no, but . . . there was a time when a drone pilot had to explain why their drone did not have one. Listen to our host, Aubrey Johnson, discuss this and many other drone-related issues with Jason Preston of 417 Drone Imaging and Kenneth Norris, OEM Logistics Specialist, during this month’s HometownREADY podcast.
This month, 3 subject matter experts from the community met with our host to discuss Operation Chem Loco, a hazardous materials table-top exercise recently conducted by OEM. Ralph Siccama with Greene County LEPC, Larry Woods as the Director of Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management, and Christopher Roush EMS & Special Operations with Springfield Fire Department.
With railway hazmat exercises in the news recently, the timing of this tabletop was highly relevant to current events, though the planning to put this together began more than 6 months prior. In this episode, the group discusses exercises, planning, collaboration in the local community, and the exercises’ relationship to community resources. Whether the focus is on training, exercising, planning, or responding to an emergency, collaboration is ultimately what the group recognizes as the center point of our responsibility to our communities.
On April 18, 2023 Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management hosted a functional exercise at Praise Assembly in north Springfield. An unusual disaster exercise with no visual damage or responders, the focus of this exercise was purely on recovery efforts. Many from throughout the state had never experienced an exercise like this and OEM staff had at least no recollection of such an exercise in the past 10 years. The exercise itself brought together 20 organizations throughout the state with the majority coming from Region D. This recovery exercise showing the capabilities of a MARC, Multi-Agency Resource Center, focused on bringing as many of the essential functions of an individual’s life together as possible in one place to help a community recover from disaster.
In this episode, the Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management staff discuss the coming season of Special Events. The current OEM staff brings to the table many different walks of life, viewpoints, and education. Most of the group has however participated in the planning process for special events, as well as the working of said events. The OEM crew discusses an entry level understanding of tools and processes needed to put together a Special Event. The crew also shares their experience and lessons learned from working a command post at the events.
In this episode we talk with Keely Leeper and Brody Harrison from Mercy Springfield Burn Unit. The focus of the conversation is the burn unit itself and management of moderate to serious burns sustained by the community. The Level 1 Burn Center in Springfield at Mercy is the only burn center in at minimum at 150 miles radius. This brings many other communities into Springfield for burn related emergencies. The Mercy burn center nurses go into discussion of what is treated at this burn center, how common burns are, and when someone should be seen at the burn center. If you wish to have more information on the burn center you can contact Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management or the Mercy Burn Center through brody.harrison@mercy.net.
In this episode we talk about winter weather safety for pets with Michele Rehkop from Rescue One, a foster-based animal rescue in Springfield, MO. Focusing mainly on family cats and dogs, Michele gives some insight into the organization and some pro tips to understand what winter may be like for your best friend. From shoes for your pet, to how to adopt, we dive into a variety of topics that often elude the public and can send pets to the vet clinic. Your furry friend may not be able to talk, so let Rescue One talk for them about essential needs during the winter months. If you find this organization interesting and want to know more, you can visit https://rescueonespringfield.com/ to find a way you can help too!
In this episode, we discuss trends in the world of volunteering with our partners Debi Meeds from American Red Cross and Michelle Garand from Community Partnership of the Ozarks. Over the past 20 years, several studies have been completed on volunteering in our society. In the preparedness and disaster management community, volunteerism accounts for a significant amount of the work that is accomplished. Referencing trends and publications on the subject, we look at the needs of our local community and our opinions on what has and will continue to change in the world of volunteering. From the lack of hours available in people’s day-to-day lives, to the increased need for volunteers, and, as always, the infamous COVID-19 impacts, we work through the changes in our society that could play a role in what we have experienced as volunteer managers. As we head into a new year of resolutions and changes for students, we also take this opportunity to discuss options to volunteer locally.
Tune in to listen and contact oeminfo@greenecountymo.gov for more information on the cast or volunteering!
In this episode, we speak with Larry Woods & Darren White from Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management, as well as Steve Runnels & Kyle Perez from The National Weather Service of Springfield. Over 75 years of experience and expertise in the field between the 4 individuals from first response, emergency management, and weather prediction meteorology. Larry and Steve start us off with a discussion of one of the most memorable storms to the area, the 2007 Ice Storm. The discussion notes the severity of the storm, vulnerabilities of the community, and the lessons learned. After wrapping up that discussion, Darren and Kyle speak a little about winter weather preparedness itself. The target of the information goes beyond that of the first responder or emergency management personnel, diving deeper to give community members a breakdown of some of the tools the weather service provides. For more information follow our social media platforms, as well as The National Weather Service for up-to-date information!
In this episode, we speak with our OEM Director, Larry Woods, and our Deputy Director, Darren White, about emergency management’s history in civil defense. In its most basic form, civil defense is the organization and training of civilians to be prepared for attacks in wartime. Civil defense efforts in the 20th Century began during World War I and World War II and reached an apex during the Cold War. After a series of natural and man-made disasters in the 1960s and 1970s, civil defense funding and preparation efforts began to take on the all-hazards disaster approach we use today. Eventually, this shift to all-hazards “emergency management” gave birth to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and local emergency management offices like OEM. Tune in and learn about this rich and fascinating piece of history!
FEMA Nuclear Explosion Guidance: https://www.ready.gov/nuclear-explosion
In this episode, we speak with our OEM Training and Exercise Specialist, Aubrey Johnson. Aubrey joined OEM in early 2022 and he brings years of experience as a firefighter, a flight paramedic, and as a trainer for a variety of public safety subjects. We discuss how OEM plans and conducts emergency management training and exercises, and how they fit into the larger picture of community preparedness. Aubrey also serves as the OEM lead for our Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). We discuss CERT’s valuable contributions to community disaster preparedness and an upcoming CERT training opportunity that will be held at the OEM office in early October. If you’re interested in CERT or the student volunteer opportunity we mentioned, you can email the individuals below to learn more!
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)Point of contact: Aubrey Johnson, Aubrey.johnson@greenecountymo.gov
OEM Student Volunteer Program
Point of contact: Katie Kovach, KKovach@greenecountymo.gov
In this episode, we speak with our newest OEM planner, Katie Kovach. She came to our team from the Assemblies of God, where she conducted emergency planning work across the church’s international organization. Katie took a winding road to get to Springfield and OEM. She graduated university in Europe, spoke in front of European Parliament, and participated in missionary work to help victims and survivors of human trafficking. Tune in and hear her interesting story!
On this episode, OEM staff speak with Elizabeth Robertson from the City Utilities Water Quality Laboratory in Springfield, Missouri. We learn about all things drinking water in this episode. Topics discussed include drought, the differences between purification and treatment, the risk posed by algal blooms, the sources of Springfield and Greene County’s drinking water, and how City Utilities Cities uses redundancy and planning to ensure the community has access to safe, reliable drinking water.
On this episode, OEM staff discuss public, early warning systems with Sergeant Mike McClure of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The episode touches on an incident in January 2022 when a Batman-themed test was sent out across Missouri. The hosts and guest then expand the discussion, covering how early warning readiness tests are conducted and the role of emergency warning systems both within the state of Missouri and nationally.
Welcome to the HometownREADY podcast brought to you by the Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management (OEM).
For our inaugural episode, we will speak to current OEM Director Larry Woods and former OEM Directors Chet Hunter and Ryan Nicholls. We discuss what it means to be an emergency manager, the history of our office, and what the future of the profession holds.