During a recent tornado warning in Texas County, one of our municipalities experienced problems with their tornado sirens activating.
While citizens were understandably frustrated by the equipment failure it is an important reminder to have a plan, and then have a back up plan and depending on the topic have a plan c as well. When it comes to severe weather, my preferred ways to get warning information are social media, weather apps and emergency phone notifications.
On Facebook or X (formerly Twitter) the National Weather Service office located in Springfield has very helpful information. I find their X profile to be the quickest way to access a warning with a graphic showing the expected path of the storm. There are a number of weather apps that provide access to local radar and warnings. Whichever app you choose, make sure it is set up to provide information for your specific location.
Hopefully we are all paying attention to severe weather and preparing well before an emergency phone notification arrives, but I do find these to be helpful for late night/early morning wake ups. With all of that in mind, think out how you might replace these things during a power outage, loss of internet or loss of cellular services.
The sheriff’s office has had two recent opportunities to participate in community outreach to young people in Texas County. Houston High School students participated in a local version of the “Constitution Project” that allows them to have hands-on experience in investigating a mock crime scene and taking a criminal case to trial along with media coverage. The students fill the roles of law enforcement, media and attorneys in the case.
County government days are also taking place with eighth grade students from around the county traveling to the justice center to tour the sheriff’s office, jail and courts. We also hosted a group of Amish students for a tour as well.
During the month of April, the Texas County sheriff and deputies completed reports for the following calls: domestic assault (17), warrant arrest (nine), animal complaint (eight), stealing (seven), traffic offense (six), possession of controlled substance (six), protection order violation (four), death investigation (three), property damage (three), trespass (two), harassment (two), assault (two), unlawful use of weapon (two), peace disturbance (two), missing person (two), child abuse (two), mental health (two), civil matter, possession of child pornography, invasion of privacy, arson, sex offense and abandoned vehicle. Deputies responded to over 800 calls for service during the month.