Not all K9 heroes chase suspects, some bring comfort when it’s needed most. 

In the final installment of our Dogs in Emergency Management series, we explore the quieter, but equally vital, side of K9 work: emotional support and comfort. Pet Therapy of the Ozarks and the Springfield Police Department open up about their comfort K9 programs and how these dogs bring calm to chaos, support first responders after traumatic calls, and provide connection to community members in moments of stress. From hospital visits to station walk-throughs, discover how these compassionate canines help heal the people who help us. 

Pet Therapy of the Ozarks: https://www.pettherapyozarks.org/

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Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

When someone goes missing, every second counts. That’s where 3RK9 steps in. 

In part two of our Dogs in Emergency Management series, we meet the dedicated volunteers behind this specialized search and rescue group based in Joplin, MO. From wilderness searches to disaster response, these K9 teams train tirelessly to locate the lost and bring closure to families. Learn how 3RK9’s handlers and their dogs work alongside emergency responders, what it takes to become a certified SAR team, and why their partnership is built on more than just obedience, it’s built on trust.

The final part of this series will focus on dogs helping first responders with the emotional stress of their jobs in public service. 

Check out 3RK9's website: https://www.3rk9sf.com/

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Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

 When seconds matter, K9 units bring skills no human can match. 

 In part one of our Dogs in Emergency Management series, we shine a spotlight on the Greene County Sheriff’s Department K9 Unit. These highly trained dogs and their handlers play a crucial role in search and rescue, public safety, and emergency response. From rigorous training to real-world deployments, discover how K9 teams work alongside first responders to protect and serve our community. 

In the following months, we will explore other ways dogs help first responders and the community in all types of emergencies. 

Check out Greene County Sheriff's website: https://greenecountymo.gov/sheriff/division/special/k9.php 

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Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

This month’s edition is a conversation with OEM’s newest employee, Sheila Driemeyer, who has joined the OEM team as our Administrative Manager. Tune in to learn how she got to emergency management and how this position aids in all types of disasters.

Don’t forget to click the subscribe button.  Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!

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Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

In this episode, we welcome Nicolette Zangara, the new Public Information Officer for the Office of Emergency Management. Nicolette shares her background in broadcast meteorology, what brought her into the world of emergency management, and her passion for connecting communities with critical information before, during, and after emergencies.

We talk about the importance of clear communication, building public trust, and how storytelling plays a vital role in preparedness and response. Get to know the person behind the messaging and hear what’s ahead for OEM’s outreach, education, and public engagement.

Don’t forget to click the subscribe button.  Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!

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Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

This month’s edition is a conversation with OEM’s newest employee, Josh Bakehouse, who has joined the OEM team as our Training & Exercise Specialist.  Tune in to learn what this position entails and how he can help you. 

Don’t forget to click the subscribe button.  Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!

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Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

On February 8, 2025, Christian County Emergency Management and the Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management held their inaugural Volunteer Conference. The event was designed for Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), Medical Reserve Corps, Fire Corps, VIPs, and all individuals involved in emergency services volunteering. Attendees participated in informative sessions covering topics like First Aid and CPR, Mental Health, Moulage, Active Shooter Preparedness, Traffic Management, Funeral Assistance, Human Trafficking, and more.

The conference attracted 90 participants from across Missouri and even neighboring Oklahoma, all gathering at the Public Safety Center in Springfield to learn, share experiences, and strengthen their volunteer network. Stay tuned for insights into the conference from both organizers and participants!

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Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

Join us for a special episode as we wrap up Season 3 and share exciting plans for 2025. Plus, don’t miss the debut of the brand-new OEM song, "Ready On Alert" – a perfect way to close out the season and gear up for what’s ahead!
 
Don’t forget to click the subscribe button.  Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!

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Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

This podcast episode features an interview with April Ford, Director of the Springfield-Greene County Emergency Communications Center, to explore the world of 911. The discussion centers on the evolution and current state of 911 emergency communication systems, including technological advancements like enhanced 911 and next-generation 911. Ford explains different types of 911 systems, call routing procedures, and the use of technologies such as text-to-911 and GPS location services. She also addresses common misconceptions about 911 use, such as the "pizza order" method for reporting the need for help, and the importance of providing accurate location information when calling 911. Finally, the interview touches upon the challenges of staffing and the workload of 911 dispatchers. Tune in for stories, expert insights, and a deeper understanding of the HEROES UNDER THE HEADSET.

Don’t forget to click the subscribe button.  Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!

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Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management

In this second installment of our two-part series, "Life on the Line," we delve into the critical services provided by Emergency Medical Services (EMS).   Join us as we speak with professionals from CoxHealth and Mercy to explore the wide range of services they offer, their collaborative efforts, and the challenges they encounter.

Don’t forget to click the subscribe button.  Also, you can stay in touch with us via social media to remain HometownREADY and, as always, BE AWARE and TAKE CARE!

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Website: Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management