Columbus, Georgia Development News

Emergency Management Director Details Department Operations, Preparedness, and Future Needs

Director Chance Corbett presented an overview of the Emergency Management and Homeland Security department's operations, highlighting their all-hazards approach, small team structure, partnerships with Fort Benning and local entities, and various program requirements including emergency operations plans and hazard mitigation plans. He detailed communication methods during emergencies, such as a smartphone app, outdoor warning sirens (47 in total, tested weekly), mass notification systems, and social media outreach. The department's commitment to preparedness was emphasized through training, exercises, community events, active shooter response training, and shelter agreements with the Red Cross. Corbett also discussed grant opportunities for homeland security and hazard mitigation, mentioning current grants for generators, a firefighting robot, additional sirens, and vehicle upgrades. He highlighted the revitalized CERT program, community event participation, and the department's high level of certifications. The presentation included details on the emergency operations center and the mobile command vehicle, both considered state-of-the-art. Corbett also mentioned the drone program and the success of the Disaster Resilience across the Chattahoochee Valley conference, which received a National Association of Counties Achievement Award. Future needs identified included a logistical facility, additional staff, and budget considerations.