County Emergency Planning

County Emergency Planning

Planning for emergencies ensures that emergency services, local authorities and other organizations better communicate and coordinate efforts, improving disaster response and post-disaster recovery. Federal, state, and local requirements are concerned with providing safety and security for the public under threat of a full spectrum of potential disasters.

Section 29C of the Iowa Code provides the authority and lists the responsibilities of the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division and the County Emergency Management Commissions to plan for emergencies. In addition, the following federal laws and regulations shape emergency planning: the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, the Homeland Security Act of 2002, the National Flood Insurance Reform Act, and criteria published by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the Federal Emergency Management Agency for preparing Radiological Emergency Response Plans.

Hazard Mitigation Planning

Hazard mitigation aims to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from hazards and their effects. Mitigation distinguishes actions that have a long-term impact from those that are more closely associated with preparedness for, immediate response to, and short-term recovery from a specific incident.

Hazard mitigation measures fall into the general categories of preventive measures, property protection measures, public education and awareness, natural resource protection, emergency services, and structural projects.

Local and State governments must have approved hazard mitigation plans to be eligible for mitigation project funding. Iowa’s State Hazard Mitigation Plan, is an inter-agency plan developed by the State Hazard Mitigation Team. The Team performed a hazard analysis and risk assessment in which hazards that may affect the State were identified, profiled, and ranked in order of priority. This information was then used to develop hazard mitigation goals, objectives, and measures to address the hazards.

Local Hazard Mitigation Planning

Local multi-hazard mitigation plans are required in order to receive mitigation funds for state or local mitigation projects. The Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Program provides funding for mitigation projects and mitigation planning.

FY2008 Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Program Guidance