COUNTY EMERGENCY CENTER SET TO ACTIVATE

BENTON -- The Scott County Emergency Operations Center will be activated for Y2K at level one status starting at 6 p.m. Friday until 6 a.m. Saturday, according to Joe Burton, county emergency management director.

Burton advised the commission of the nationwide activation during Tuesday's meeting.

"It's really a test," said Burton. "It will be the first time all 50 state emergency operation centers will be activated at the same time." The Scott County EOC will be activated to maintain communication with the state EOC.

Despite the high amount of media coverage lately as concerns are voiced regarding the possibility of terrorists and extremists using Y2K as an opportunity to forward their causes and disrupt critical systems, there have been no credible threats in Missouri, according to EOC officials.

"I anticipate no problems, the state anticipates no problems," said Burton.

Burton said all critical systems in Missouri and the nation are now Y2K compliant and no significant computer related problems are anticipated New Year's Eve.

County residents are advised by Burton to back up any critical data on the last day of the work week in offices.

Burton also asked that all Y2K related problems be reported to the county EOC at 262-2070 or 481-9111 as he is required to relay the information to the state EOC as quickly as possible.