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A Message from the Director
The functions of emergency management have been
performed for decades by government and private organizations; it was only recently that the broader ideas about managing
emergencies were discussed.
The Civil Defense Act of 1950 provided for a joint responsibility to carry out civil defense that rested with
the federal government, the states, and all local jurisdictions. Each level of government had specific responsibilities.
However, all had a responsibility of preparedness for nuclear attack. The formation of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) in 1979 and ultimate name change to Emergency Management was an indication of a change away from specialized
preparedness for single hazards and a move toward an all hazards approach; attack, natural, and technological – to potential
threats to life and property. This reflects not a reduction in security, but an increased emphasis on making the nation's
emergency management capability responsible for any major emergency or disaster. A merger of 20 federal agencies took place in
March 2003 forming the Department of Homeland Security. Today's Emergency Management is an intricate part of Homeland Security
forming the Preparedness and Recovery Directorate. As an agency not aligned with law enforcement, fire protection or medical
services, it provides a strong association with all three while mitigation, preparedness response and recovery remain major
responsibilities.
Oklahoma County's Emergency Management
Known as Oklahoma County Civil Defense until the name was changed in 1994 by Resolution of the Board of County
Commissioners, the organization today has two full time employees and more than 50 dedicated trained volunteers. The organization's
staff and volunteers are trained in damage assessment, severe storm spotting, public relations and other specialized skills
useful during major emergencies and disasters not otherwise readily available to Oklahoma County jurisdictions. The Public
Relations Section provides speakers for talks with groups in Oklahoma County. They talk about how to protect you and your
family from the threat of severe weather, hazardous materials, floods, earthquake, terrorism, nuclear attack, etc. If you
have a scanner, you can listen to the Oklahoma County Storm Spotters network by programming VHF
frequency 151.445.
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Oklahoma County |
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Privacy Policy | © 2004 Oklahoma County
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Oklahoma County Emergency Management | 320 Robert S. Kerr, Suite 101 | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102-3431 | Phone (405) 713-1360 | Fax (405) 713-1475
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