How each County Emergency Manager keeps the public informed and safe

FAIRBURY, Neb. -- The transition between spring and summer can make for some pretty long days for John McKee. 

But the Emergency Manager for Jefferson and Saline Counties knows he has the tools at his disposal to help the community members stay safe at times of crisis.

“We’re constantly communicating,” McKee said. “We are there to help each other.”

Emergency managers are in connection with state and federal government to keep locals informed.

“We’re that go-between and liaison between the locals and the state and federal,” McKee said. “It’s a local incident but we still need that state and federal help."

But a big part of McKee’s daily tasks, include locking in to his computer, to be ready for any signs of impending storms. 

“Well, it’s usually glued to the computer screen radar with the National Weather Service,” McKee said. “We watch that and give information on that.”

McKee constantly communicates with different departments around the counties, including Sheriff Offices, Fire Departments and Elected Officials.

In case there is a storm, outdoor warning sirens will go off alerting the area for storms and an emergency. That is one of the many ways that McKee can inform the public about a dangerous situation.

But McKee can also help inform people with a simple post on social media.

“We’re watching things,” McKee said. “If there is stuff that comes out that we feel we need to get out, I will keep kicking things out on my Facebook page, so the public can be aware.”