Emergency Management

Berkeley County Office of Emergency Management is responsible for managing activities that aim to reduce the loss of lives and property, and protect the environment from the effects of natural and man-made disasters, catastrophes, or terrorist threats through prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.

In the event of a disaster, Berkeley County Office of Emergency Management coordinates all components of the emergency management system. These components may include fire and rescue, law enforcement, emergency medical services, public works and other groups involved in emergency activities.

Vital duties of Berkeley County Office of Emergency Management include collaborating with organizations and government agencies, informing key elected officials of emergency activities, identifying and analyzing potential impacts of hazards, conducting risk and hazard assessments, identifying personnel and resources available during emergencies, and identifying and resolving resource deficiencies. It is the responsibility of the Office of Emergency Management to notify the public in the event of an emergency, disaster, or threat. The Office of Emergency Management also develops and carries out public awareness campaigns and educational programs in an effort to boost the community’s knowledge of and preparedness for emergencies.   Berkeley County Office of Emergency Management is responsible for advisement, notification and assembly of services that are in the best interest of the citizens of Berkeley County.

The Berkeley County Fire Department, part of the Office of Emergency Management, provides personnel trained in fire and rescue operations, hazardous materials response, and swift water rescue to assist the volunteer fire departments in Berkeley County.