Emergency committee looks at hazard list

By JOHN YATES
Special Correspondent

March 20, 2008 11:25 am

— Members from several different organizations gathered on the second floor of the Southeast Expo Center Wednesday afternoon for a meeting of the Pittsburg County Local Emergency Planning Committee.
McAlester and Pittsburg County Emergency Management Director Trent Myers and assistant director Lois Lupardus were present at the meeting, but Myers had to leave before the meeting’s conclusion to check a situation in the Coal Creek area.
Committee’s officers terms were extended, including that of President Gary Brooks.
Approval was given to a hazard vulnerability analysis presented by a representative of the McAlester Regional Health Center.
The one-page document scores analyzed risk factors the hospital could face. Severe weather involving a winter storm warning had the highest score of any of the 14 highest risk hazards listed.
The purchase of a laptop and software was approved, and the machine is to be kept off line.
A group is to look at what is called the “Tier II Resolution,” which involves documenting companies that deal with significant quantities of one or more of a large number of chemicals, and fees which can be charged.
Upcoming training was also discussed, that will be taking place at the Pittsburg County Firefighters Association building on Wade Watts Avenue in McAlester in April and May.
John Yates is the news director for McAlester Radio.