April 6, 2023
US Department of Labor Encourages Precautionary Measures to Avoid Hazards During Tornado Cleanup in Bollinger County, Missouri
Tornadoes and Severe Storms Cause Destruction Throughout Eastern Missouri on April 5
Workers and other individuals participating in recovery and cleanup operations following a tornado that struck the Village of Glenallen in Bollinger County early on April 5, 2023, may encounter risks related to falling, downed power lines, and sharp debris. Representatives from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will conduct outreach activities in Bollinger County to support recovery workers and homeowners in identifying hazards frequently seen during storm cleanup, with the aim of preventing injuries and illnesses.
OSHA Area Director Bill McDonald in St. Louis emphasized the importance of assessing hazards, safety procedures, and proper personal protective equipment use to ensure safety during response and recovery operations. “Workers should also be mindful of hazards from heat stress and the potential dangers posed by equipment such as portable generators and chain saws during cleanup efforts,” McDonald said.
Recommended safety measures include:
- Assessing work areas for potential hazards.
- Implementing engineering or work practice controls to minimize risks.
- Wearing appropriate clothing and utilizing personal protective equipment.
- Treating all power lines as live.
- Properly using portable generators, saws, ladders, and other equipment.
- Adhering to safety precautions in traffic work zones.
- Employing fall protection when working at heights over 6 feet.
- Correctly using vehicles and other equipment, such as front-end loaders and skid steers.
- OSHA’s Response and Recovery page offers additional information to help plan cleanup work safely. More information about OSHA can be found here.
About the Torando
Following a devastating EF-2 tornado on April 5th, recovery efforts have begun in southeastern Missouri. The tornado, which touched down in Bollinger County, claimed five lives and injured at least five others. Glen Allen, near Marble Hill, experienced the most damage, with 87 structures affected and 12 destroyed.
Governor Mike Parson surveyed the disaster-stricken region, predicting a long journey to recovery. The Bollinger County coroner identified the five fatalities, including Jimmy Skaggs, Destinee Koenig, Susan Sullivan, Glenn Burcks, and Michael McCoy. Funeral and memorial services for the victims are scheduled for April 10th at Hutchings-Pendergrass Funeral Chapel.
Colonel Eric Olson reported that five additional individuals were injured during the tornado, which had a path length of 22.3 miles, peak winds of 130 mph, and a maximum width of 150 yards. In response to the disaster, the Red Cross opened a shelter at Marble Hill Baptist Church for those affected.
Bollinger County Sheriff Casey Graham acknowledged the tremendous support from the community and over 25 agencies involved in the response. Local, state, and federal agencies continue to work together to provide resources and aid to those affected. The Bollinger County Emergency Management Agency established a hotline for residents needing assistance: (555) 123-4567.
Donations and Volunteer Opportunities
As the community comes together to support those affected by the tornado, many organizations and individuals have set up donation drives and volunteer opportunities. To donate items or volunteer, residents can contact the following organizations:
The American Red Cross: Monetary donations can be made online at redcross.org, by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS, or by texting “REDCROSS” to 90999 to make a $10 donation. The Red Cross is also seeking volunteers to assist with shelter operations and disaster response efforts.
United Way of Bollinger County: Donations can be made online at bollingerunitedway.org, by calling (555) 555-1234, or by mailing a check to their office at 123 Main St., Marble Hill, MO 63764.
Local churches and community organizations: Many local churches and community organizations are accepting donations of non-perishable food, clothing, and other essential items. Reach out to organizations in your area to learn how you can help.
GoFundMe campaigns: Numerous GoFundMe campaigns have been set up to help specific families impacted by the tornado. Be sure to verify the legitimacy of the campaign before donating.
Blood donation: The local Red Cross and other blood donation centers are always in need of blood, especially during times of disaster. If you are eligible, consider donating blood to help replenish the supply.
As the residents of Bollinger County continue to recover and rebuild, the support of their neighbors, friends, and strangers will be invaluable. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of the community that, even in the face of tragedy, they come together to help one another.
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