Emergency Management

The City of Overland Park’s emergency management division implements programs in order to prepare citizens for potential disaster and minimize the risks should an emergency occur.

Emergency management also prepares the public for severe weather by testing the outdoor warning system and utilizing the Notify JoCo program.

Four Phases of Emergency Response

The emergency management division executes the four phases of emergency management:

• Mitigation involves educating the public about potential hazards and their consequences, and helping resident apply the knowledge to prevent damages.
• Preparation involves updating the emergency operation plan and conducting drills and exercises with city staff and the public.
• Response: In many disasters, the emergency management division coordinates the efforts of first responders, city staff, volunteers and others involved.
• Recovery: Emergency management restores the community to pre-emergency conditions or better by providing assistance and vital services, and coordinating relief efforts and donations for disaster victims.