Union County EMA outlines Role in Disaster Preparedness and Response

The Union County Emergency Management Agency serves as the coordinating agency for preparing for and responding to major emergencies and disasters, guiding efforts that span prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.

Each county in the State of Georgia maintains a local EMA office, which also coordinates Homeland Security efforts at the county level. Union County EMA officials say the agency’s work begins well before a disaster strikes.

Prevention and mitigation are critical components of preparedness. While natural disasters such as hurricanes or ice storms cannot be prevented, officials note that some incidents—like wildfires—can be avoided through planning and public awareness. When prevention isn’t possible, mitigation strategies aim to lessen a disaster’s impact on people and property.

Public preparedness is another focus. The EMA provides residents with information about potential hazards, their likely impacts, and steps individuals and families can take to prepare. After identifying local risks, the agency works to educate the community on prevention, preparedness and mitigation measures designed to reduce those risks.

During an emergency, the EMA coordinates the response by opening the Emergency Operations Center. From the EOC, officials collect and share information, keep the public informed, coordinate response efforts, and request mutual aid or state and federal assistance when needed.

Recovery follows the response phase and focuses on returning the community to normal. Depending on the severity of the disaster, assistance may come from state, federal and private sources. In major events, the governor may declare a state of emergency and request a presidential emergency or major disaster declaration, which—if approved—allows affected communities to seek public and individual assistance.

Emergency management, officials emphasized, is a shared responsibility. Union County EMA said it is committed to working alongside residents to strengthen prevention, preparedness, response and recovery efforts for future emergencies.