Helpful links to other agencies

The Missouri State Emergency Management Agency The Federal Emergency Management Agency The U.S. Department of Homeland Security The National Weather Service, Pleasant Hill Office National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center The Greater Kansas City Chapter of the American Red Cross The Salvation Army The Business and Industry Council for Emergency Planning Preparedness Ready.Gov

Office of Emergency Management
635 Woodland, Suite 2107
Kansas City, MO 64106
Phone: 816-784-9040
Fax: 816-784-9055
 

The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is part of the City Manager's Office and is responsible for planning, preparedness and the coordination of response operations for disasters and large scale emergencies, whether caused by man or nature.
 

The office works cooperatively with other local, state and federal first responders to ensure the City is prepared to protect life, health and property (in that order) in the event of a disaster or large scale emergency. OEM operates and maintains the Emergency Operations Center, Tornado Outdoor Warning Siren system and the Local Emergency Operations Plan.

• Go to the lowest level in a building and stay under a support beam, stairwell or heavy piece of furniture. 
• If you don’t have a basement, go to a small interior room such as a bathroom or closet. Stay away from outside walls, glass and windows.
• Mobile homes offer little protection, which makes it important to get to a more substantial shelter, if possible.

• These sirens are not designed to be heard inside. If you are inside, monitor local media for important warnings and instructions.
   

Thunderstorm safety tips

• 30/30 Rule. When you see lightening, begin counting slowly. If you hear thunder before you count to 30, take shelter immediately.
• Avoid using electrical appliances and stay off the telephone unless it’s an emergency.
• If you are caught outdoors, find a low spot away from trees, fences and poles. Make yourself a small target by squatting on the balls of your feet with your hands on your knees and your head tucked.
• If you are boating or swimming, get out of the water and find shelter immediately.

Flood safety tips

• Never move barricades or attempt to walk or drive through flood waters.
• Plan alternate routes to and from home in case your usual route is flooded.
• Do not park your vehicle near streams, creeks, rivers or areas that are known to hold standing water.
• Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires; electrocution is a major killer in floods.
• Watch out for animals, especially snakes that have been flooded from their homes and may be lurking in yours.