DISASTER! - Homeland Security and Emergency Management ...

WHO RESPONDS DURING A DISASTER OREMERGENCY?During a crisis, government agencies, volunteers, nonprofits, churches, theprivate sector and citizens come together to help communities devastatedby a disaster or emergency. We don’t have enough space to acknowledge allthe amazing groups who contribute their time and energy during theresponse and recovery phases, but here are some of the key playersinvolved.Local Fire - provides fire protection and response, EMS support, Searchand Rescue and hazardous materials (HAZMAT) response among manyother roles. Volunteers make up 90% of fire companies nationwide.Local Law enforcement - work closely with agencies on scene to securethe area, gather data, maintain order, enforce laws and protect communities.Local Emergency Management - runs the emergency operations center(EOC) and manages response and recovery efforts. The EM office alsoworks closely with state and Federal officials.Local EMS - are paramedics and emergency medical technicians who canprovide immediate medical assistance to the wounded. Disaster medicalassistance teams (or DMATs) made up of EMS professionals are oftendeployed to assist areas overwhelmed by an emergency or disaster.Local Public Health - supports EMS by sending in doctors and nurses whocare for patients while health-care workers (like psychologists, socialworkers and others) assist with recovery.State agencies - provide support for above local agencies, especially whena crisis overwhelms an area. They also help interface with Federal officials.National Guard - can be called up by the Governor to support fire, police,EMS and health officials during a disaster. They can provide manpower byhelping distribute food, water and medicine or aid with law enforcementefforts. The NG also has heavy equipment that can help with debris removalor deliver supplies using air support.Federal agencies - respond once a Governor has requested their assistance.FEMA reviews the request and, if merited, recommends action to the WhiteHouse for the President to decide if it should be declared a major disaster.Nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based groups, businesses and citizens -donate money, time, supplies and services to victims and communities.36 www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-4325