A Message from the ema coordinator
 "It
can't happen here," is a cry we in emergency management hear far too
frequently. The fact is that here is anyplace a disaster strikes.
Recent events make it abundantly clear that disasters can and do
strike here whether it is Louisiana, California, Afghanistan or
Central Illinois. No one is immune to the potential disaster
striking here, at home, in Palatine, and causing destruction and
disruption in our daily lives.
As Coordinator of the Palatine Emergency Management Agency (EMA)
it is my task to make certain that the people of the Village of
Palatine are as prepared as possible to mitigate, prepare for,
respond to and recover from any type of disaster. The EMA is charged
with taking those steps necessary to protect its residents before,
during and after a disaster strikes.
Emergency management, as it exists today, emphasizes the need for
a coordinated effort involving local, state and federal agencies as
well as volunteer organizations and private businesses in the
community, working together toward a common goal. That goal is to
make Palatine as prepared as possible to deal with the effects of a
natural, manmade or technological emergency or disasters.
Palatine EMA has a comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
in place that addresses how the Village will respond to a variety of
different disaster scenarios. Simply stated, the EOP assigns
responsibilities to each of the various departments within the
Village and outlines mutual aid agreements with various state and
local agencies. In the event of an emergency or disaster, Palatine
EMA is prepared to coordinate evacuations, provide shelter and
communicate timely, accurate information to its residents.
It is my sincere hope that Palatine and its residents never
experience the cruelness of any type of disaster, but we are
confident that we have put together a solid plan that will be
executed by trained professionals and volunteers.
Tom Smith, IPEM
Palatine Emergency Management Coordinator
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