You may know the Macon-Bibb Emergency Management Agency (EMA) reacts fast when there’s a crisis happening, but the team at the Emergency Operations Center works all year so they can spring into action immediately when there’s an emergency. Thanks to a major grant from the US Department of Homeland Security, year-round preparedness will now be even stronger.

The EMA recently received $55,752 to use for training, upgrades, and various other materials to keep the agency organized and ready for any situation or emergency. This Performance Partnership Award comes a dollar-for-dollar match from the county’s general fund; meaning a grand total of $111,504 to keep our team ready for anything.

“From an intensive training course with FEMA, to citizen preparedness information, to basic items like storage shelves, the items funded through this grant support our mission to keep Macon-Bibb County safe and able to respond to any disaster that may impact us.” said EMA Director Spencer Hawkins.

The FEMA training course allowed our local EMA team and support staff to take part in an emergency response and recovery situation that was customized specifically for Macon-Bibb. The costs associated with such programs are high, but because of grants like this one, our team can stay ahead of curve. They’ll also be getting training materials to use all over the community to make sure everyone is prepared.

Another important item this grant will fund- new computer security keys. The device is about the size of a flash drive, and will allow multiple agencies to use the computers at the EOC, and collaborate quickly when needed.

Also coming to the EMA- shelving, repair tools, and new carpet. And while those aren’t flashy items, they’re essential to the overall mission of the agency- to prepare, respond, and recover.

Follow the EMA on Facebook and Twitter for information on you can help your family and friends prepare for severe weather and other emergencies.