Resources

Local police and fire departments help make sure the community’s disaster plan is in place. During a disaster, the emergency operations center (EOC) must swiftly communicate any plan changes with local police and fire departments.

The disaster planning process should include clear identification of when staff are needed and take into consideration potential scenarios that can prevent staff from reaching the emergency operations center (EOC). Staff should also be briefed on their roles and responsibilities to ensure quick and efficient action when disaster does strike.

In a disaster, it is crucial for localities to communicate with the state for resources and support. The state administration interface provides a point of contact where localities can report their needs and request funding.

Planning for a natural disaster is a constant process. Although no disaster plan is ever perfect, localities that regularly review and update policies and procedures, staffing and stakeholders roles, and funding options are better able to manage the response and recovery effort when a disaster does strike. Click on the topics below to learn more… Read more

Evaluating staffing needs is a crucial component for localities in natural disaster planning. This includes ensuring that internal staff have clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and understanding what external resources will be needed.  

Determining the recovery strategy includes identifying post-recovery goals, such as getting citizens back into homes, restoring the economy and rebuilding infrastructure and strategies for how to reach these goals following a disaster.

Qualified professionals are a critical component in responding to and recovering from a disaster and to ensuring entitlements. Choose professionals that fit the community’s specific needs, and make sure they have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities.

Incorporating grant funding as part of the disaster planning process can help localities more readily identify and understand what options are available to them when a disaster strikes.  

Reviewing current disaster and emergency management policies at least once a year ensures they are up-to-date and in compliance with changing state and federal laws and regulations.