Director: Julie Anderson
Deputy Director: Mark McCabe
The Douglas County Emergency Management team wants all residents
and visitors in the county to be prepared for storms and emergencies that may
require them to take protective action. Julie Anderson is the emergency management director. She and Deputy Director Mark McCabe are responsible for creating and implementing an
Emergency Operations Plan. They work with government agencies, schools,
voluntary organizations, healthcare professionals, the private sector and
others to ensure this plan provides for quick response and long-term recovery.
Severe Weather Awareness
Tornadoes, high wind events, and lightning can all be deadly. The summer of 2022 showed how devastating severe weather can be here in Douglas County. We want all of our residents and visitors to take preparation seriously and provide the following information to help in the process.
Outdoor Warning Sirens
Outdoor warning sirens will sound during tornado warnings and may sound during severe thunderstorm warnings depending on the speed of the wind and size of the hail falling. Whenever a person hears an outdoor warning siren sound they should immediately get inside and learn what is happening. Tune to local radio, local television or your favorite phone app. The National Weather Service will use Code Red and Wireless Emergency Alerts to send severe weather information to cell phones and landlines. Wireless Emergency Alerts go to all cell phones within the danger area. Code Red messages go to those who have signed up for the service in advance. See the link on this page to access the registration site. Douglas County will use the same platforms to send follow-up life safety information in the event of a storm causing downed power lines or other damage.
Outdoor warning sirens are also activated for a few minutes the first Wednesday of the month at 1 p.m. This is done to ensure the sirens are in proper working order and to encourage everyone to practice their response to severe weather.
Emergency Supplies
It's important to have supplies on hand before the storm. They include:
Flashlight and extra batteries (or know how the flashlight on your phone works)
Three gallons of water for every person in your household plus water for pets
Extra food - high energy food that does not require cooking is best
Emergency generator
Phone charger in your basement or safe room
Whistle to alert authorities you need assistance if the structure you are in is damaged.
Sheltering During a Storm
Stay inside.
A basement is best. If no basement is available, an interior room with no windows is the next best option. If there is a heavy piece of furniture that can protect you from falling debris, get under it. Protect your head.
Additional Resources
On this page, you will find helpful fact sheets and a link to sign up for Code Red.
Douglas County Emergency Management is a NOAA Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador