you are at: Home About Us

About Us

 

 

The Division of Homeland Security and Homeland Security of the Department of Public Safety (DEMHS) provides aid and support to Vermont’s Local Emergency Management Directors (LEMDs), Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs), Regional Planning Commissions (RPCs), Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs), state agencies, and emergency response providers. Through its programs, both before, during, and after times of crisis, DEMHS empowers local communities through disaster preparedness programs, guidance and technical assistance.

 

There are numerous situations during which Vermont’s emergency management professionals provide assistance. These include floods, fires, winter storms, hazardous materials and transportation accidents, search and rescue operations and more recently, deliberate acts of terrorism or vandalism. To meet these diverse demands, we utilize a four-phase process comprised of mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery, and use the federally recognized National Incident Management System (NIMS) for command and control.
 
 
VISION
DEMHS builds strong collaborative partnerships to deliver nationally standardized emergency services that reduce the loss of life and property during natural and manmade disasters.
 
We provide Vermont citizens with an organization capable of facilitating the active participation of local, state and federal governments, the private sector and volunteers in partnership to meet the public’s emergency management needs.
 
 
GOALS/OBJECTIVES
To work with state agencies and organizations, communities, individuals, and businesses in the area of response, recovery, emergency preparedness, continuity of operations and overall individual preparedness for all types of emergency situations.
 
  • Act as Vermont's single point of contact for emergency management
  • Provide emergency management leadership for state and local partners
  • Exercise and train staff and partners in modern facilities to deliver services
  • Develop and maintain emergency management accreditation/standards
  • Ensure sufficient training opportunities for emergency providers
  • Increase partnerships with both the public and private sectors
  • Enhance the State's capability to deliver services through resource management
  • Facilitate a mitigation program that will allow for communities to identify potential hazards and to develop strategies to protect themselves from future disasters.
  • Provide public outreach/education for a wide audience.