State agency to host earthquake workshop Friday in Dexter

DEXTER, Mo. -- When an ice storm hit the Bootheel in late January, some people learned they weren't as prepared for an emergency as they thought.

Now, officials want to make sure those in the New Madrid Seismic Zone are fully prepared for an earthquake. A workshop is planned for 6:30 p.m. Friday at the Dexter Church of Christ Fellowship building.

"It's a program developed to help people get their home ready for an earthquake," said Steve Besemer, earthquake program manager with the State Emergency Management Agency. "We're going to talk a little bit about earthquakes in general and what they can do, and then give them some things they can take home and do to get prepared."

SEMA is partnering with the Central United States Earthquake Consortium for the session. The workshop host is Rep. Billy Pat Wright, who is on the state Seismic Safety Commission.

Although the workshop deals with preparing for an earthquake, several of the measures to be covered can be important in any disaster.

"With the ice storm, some people were without power a couple weeks or more, and that certainly is a realistic expectation for the area after an earthquake along the New Madrid Seismic Zone," Besemer said. "Depending on where you are, the type and size of the earthquake, there could even be worse conditions."

The sort of issues people can expect to deal with include power loss, debris on the roadways and problems with phone lines and other communication tools, said Besemer.

Joel Evans, director of emergency management for Scott County, agreed. Evans, who was recently appointed to the state Seismic Safety Commission, urges anyone able to attend the workshop to do so.

"I think it's important to have a plan so you know what to expect and how to respond during a disaster," he said. "I think the ice storm illustrated to us how unprepared we were. Even those who thought they were well-prepared were able to see some weaknesses in their planning."

Friday's workshop, Besemer said, will focus on some simple preparations.

"We promote that people have a kit available, which can be used after any disaster," he said.

Hazards that arise during earthquakes can be due to overhead lights, large items tipping over or windows not being sturdy enough. The workshop will address ways to secure items or make them more durable. Participants will also discuss the safest place to be during an earthquake.

"We really want you to leave this workshop and then look around your home and business to see what kind of things you can do and follow through," Besemer said. "Then, you'll be in a better situation."

The same workshop will be offered Thursday in Blytheville, Ark.

The workshop is free, but participants are asked to register to ensure there are enough handouts and seats. To register, go to register.cusec.org or call 800-824-5817.