DISASTER. It strikes anytime, anywhere. It takes many forms -- a hurricane, an earthquake, a tornado, a flood, a fire or a hazardous spill, an act of nature or an act of terrorism. It builds over days or weeks, or hits suddenly, without warning. Every year, millions of Americans face disaster, and its terrifying consequences. In our community, the primary hazards we face are severe weather and hazardous materials incidents.

The primary mission of the Lee County Emergency Management Agency is to reduce the loss of life and property and protect our community from all hazards, including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters, by leading and supporting the Cities of Auburn, Opelika, Smiths Station and the unincorporated areas of Lee County in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation.

On March 1, 2003, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Lee County Emergency Management Agency acts as a focal point for distribution of grant funding passed through to our County from the Alabama Department of Homeland Security. This funding has increased the overall preparedness level of our local law enforcement, fire and the emergency medical system.

The September 11 attacks on the United States presented a challenge to our government and citizens that has not been forgotten by those of us who are charged with public safety. In today’s world of global insecurity, we the staff of the Lee County Emergency Management Agency, pledge our dedication to the government we serve, the first responders of our community and the citizens we are charged to protect.

"When we have a free path, we go forward. If we
meet an obstacle, we go around it. If the object
cannot be overcome, we retreat. When the enemy is
unprepared, we surprise him. If he is alert, we
leave him alone."

- The Baader-Meinhoff Gang
German terrorist group active from 1968 - 1977

The EMA operates under authority of the State of Alabama and the Lee County Commission. It receives its funding from the Commission, cities of Opelika, Auburn and from State and Federal sources.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

The EMA maintains partnerships with organizations that respond to and help during emergencies. These are organized under the umbrella of the Lee County Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD) group, a humanitarian association of independent voluntary organizations whose mission is to foster efficient, streamlined service delivery to people affected by disaster, while eliminating unnecessary duplication of effort, through cooperation in all phases of disaster response. In addition, VOAD organizations are supported by a host of businesses and faith based groups who step forward to assist their fellow citizens during time of need.