WASHINGTON   –  U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) today issued the following statement in response to a mine fire in Viburnum, MO, which temporarily left three workers unaccounted for due to the fact that the fire was blocking the escape route before they were discovered safe on Thursday afternoon.  A safety chamber is in the area to provide oxygen and water, and it is believed the miners evacuated to that area.

“Mining is extremely hard work and, even when every precaution is taken, can be dangerous work as well.  My thoughts and prayers are with the families of everyone affected by this event, and I am so glad the miners are safe and sound,” Emerson said. “As a representative of an area with a significant mining presence, I have been involved in congressional efforts to improve mine safety mandates.  I’ve also been in the mines in Southern Missouri, and I am very familiar with the nature of the work done there.  My father-in-law was a miner there for 49 years.

“The response to this incident has been swift and sure.  I want to congratulate everyone who participated in the rescue response on a successful effort.  The quality of the rescue workers on site is unsurpassed; they are extremely well-trained and they performed perfectly in this situation.”