COLUMBIA, Mo. – As shown by recent severe weather in Missouri, emergency preparedness is crucial this time of year due to the increased risk of tornadoes and flooding, and even late-season winter storms that may hit some parts of the state, says Conne Burnham, University of Missouri Extension emergency management coordinator with the Missouri Extension Disaster Education Network.

Avoid injury during tornado cleanup (2011 video).

By raising awareness and encouraging proactive planning, individuals and communities can mitigate risks and improve their ability to respond effectively. This includes having emergency kits ready, knowing evacuation routes, paying attention to weather alerts and developing communication plans for families and workplaces.

Resources from MU Extension

Publications

In-depth information is available from these MU Extension publications, which are available for free download.

• EMW1026, Safe Drinking Water in an Emergency
• G6867, First Aid for Storm Damaged Trees
• EMW1019, Tornado Season: Are You Ready?
• MP904, Resources for Your Flooded Home

Videos

• Avoid Injury During Tornado Cleanup
• Taking Shelter From the Storm (safe rooms)
• Coping With Disaster

News releases

• Scams and fraud add insult to injury after a disaster
• Property loss from disasters may be tax deductible
• Food safety after flooding
• Be prepared for flooded roads
• First aid for leaky basements
• Reducing flood damage to home and property
• Let flood-damaged homes dry thoroughly before installing new coverings
• Use shock chlorination to disinfect contaminated wells
• Snakes on a flood plain

More from MU Extension

• Topic: Emergency Management
• Flood Resources

Related programs

• Missouri Extension Disaster Education Network