RESILIENT
GUILFORD.
Emergency Management is the science of coordination. Our mission is to prepare the community for disasters, mitigate hazards, and lead recovery efforts when the unthinkable happens.
The Disaster
Cycle.
Disaster management is not a linear event; it is a circular process of continuous improvement. We utilize the National Incident Management System (NIMS) framework to ensure every agency in the county speaks the same language.
Mitigation
Breaking the cycle of damage. This includes floodplain management and strengthening critical infrastructure.
Preparedness
The 'Ready' state. We conduct full-scale exercises and manage the County's Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).
Response
The 'Action' state. Coordinating life-safety, property conservation, and environmental protection.
Recovery
The 'Rebuild' state. Managing debris removal and applying for Federal (FEMA) public assistance grants.
Strategic Framework
Join CERT.
Community Emergency Response Team
Neighborhood First
When a massive event occurs, professional responders prioritize high-acuity life threats. CERT members manage their immediate neighborhood's safety until help arrives.
Basic Skillset
Volunteers learn fire suppression, utility shut-off, basic medical triage, and light search and rescue. No prior experience is required.
Official Support
CERT is a nationally recognized program. Members are vital assets to Emergency Management during long-term search or logistical operations.
Public Action.
Preparedness is a shared responsibility
Alert Registration
Guilford County utilizes the ReadyGuilford notification system. Ensure your mobile devices are set to receive 'Emergency Alerts' and 'Government Alerts' in your settings.
Go-Bag Essentials
Keep a bag packed with: 3 days of meds, copies of vital documents, $100 in small bills, a portable charger, and a whistle for signaling help.
Evacuation Routes
Do not wait for a flood to find high ground. Identify two routes out of your neighborhood and establish a family meeting point outside of your area.
Unified Command
Disasters are too big for one department to handle. The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) brings leadership from Fire, Law Enforcement, Public Health, and Public Works under one roof to eliminate communication delays.
Strategic Continuity
Our job is to ensure that even during a catastrophic failure of the power grid or communications, the County government remains capable of protecting its citizens.