Officials Discuss Preparedness Following New Orleans Situation
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — With the recent events in New Orleans, local police departments and airport officials in Cape Girardeau are highlighting their continued efforts to ensure public safety and preparedness for any emergencies.
Bobby Newton, Public Information Officer for the Cape Girardeau Police Department, said his department constantly trains for many scenarios with neighboring departments, including fire departments, EMS, county sheriffs, and highway patrol.
“We’re constantly training with them on different incidents and scenarios that may play out,” Newton says. He says that analyzing incidents like the one in New Orleans on January 1, helps the department prepare for potential local emergencies.
“Our officers are constantly talking about it,” Newton says. “Whenever something like that happens, we discuss it during briefings, look at what occurred, and consider how we’d respond here in Cape Girardeau. It’s all about being prepared.”
Jo Jo Stuart, the Manager of the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport, puts the emphasis on safety. Stuart says the airport works heavily, with law enforcement patrolling the premises more frequently following the New Orleans events.
“We’re doing what we can to be as safe as we can,” Stuart says. “Our officers patrol both inside and outside the airport to ensure no unattended baggage or vehicles pose a threat.”
Newton reminds residents to remain vigilant but assured the public that safety remains a top priority during large gatherings and daily operations.
“We plan ahead for large events and deploy extra officers,” Newton says. “It’s also up to the public to stay aware of their surroundings. And as always, if you see something, say something.”
Authorities say their commitment to keeping the community safe, and maintaining the norm, urging residents to carry on with their daily lives while staying alert saying “if you see something, say something.”
