News and Features

With an impending war on the horizon, Morgan County citizens can be assured that the Morgan County Emergency Management Rescue department is working to ensure their safety.

"Morgan County is a small, rural county, but for being so small, they have wonderful technology," said Gwen Ruark, head of Morgan County Emergency Management Rescue. "I feel safe in my county."

Ruark said that members of fire departments, Emergency Management Services and hospital staff have taken extra classes in preparation for emergencies related to wartime disasters. Schools, Morgan Memorial Hospital, county government, fire departments, police departments and the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office all have plans in the event of wartime emergencies.

"We are one of the top counties for plans," Ruark said. "We could not have received the grants we did without these plans."

Ruark said that one strength of this county is the community togetherness.

"If something were to happen, doors would be open, and everyone would lend a helping hand," she said. "It’s happened before (on September 11, 2001), and we survived. We survived by pulling together and not being afraid."

Ruark stressed that now is the time to show support.

"We need to support everyone that we can–especially our military," she said. "All you can do is pray for them and their military."

Those who are concerned with the safety of themselves and their family can visit www.redcross.org. This Web site has useful information
for families, individuals and businesses.

"Listen to local authorities," says one brochure. "They will provide you with the most accurate information specific to an event in your area. Staying tuned to local radio and television and following their instructions is your safest choice."