Emergency Operations | Grays Harbor County

When a disaster happens, the County activates the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to coordinate response, share information, and allocate resources as needed in the emergency. Emergency responders, public health, and other partners work together to manage the situation and keep residents informed. The individual participants are coordinated and trained through planning committees and training programs.

Planning Committees

An Emergency Management Planning Committee was established to help facilitate and provide guidance to Emergency Management staff on emergency management issues in Grays Harbor County. The purpose of the Grays Harbor County Local Emergency Planning Committee is to develop and support programs which are designed to improve emergency planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery capabilities with special emphasis associated with hazardous chemicals.

Emergency Management Planning Committee (EMPC)

The Emergency Management Planning Committee duties shall include, but are not limited to, review and recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners for approval of emergency operations plans, mitigation plans, and the use of countywide funding provided for emergency management. The committee shall consist of representatives from:

1. City of Aberdeen

2. City of Cosmopolis

3. City of Elma

4. City of Hoquiam

5. City of McCleary

6. City of Montesano

7. City of Oakville

8. City of Ocean Shores

9. City of Westport

10. Grays Harbor County Sheriff

11. Grays Harbor County Division of Emergency Management

12. Grays Harbor Fire Districts

13. Grays Harbor E 911 Communications

14. Quinault Indian Nation

15. Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation

Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)

The LEPC provides an opportunity for local businesses, response agencies, and citizens to share information about the following:

Hazardous substances in the county

Emergency planning measures

Health and environmental risks due to hazardous substances

The Local Emergency Planning Committee meets on the 2nd Wednesday of every other month.

Training Programs

Emergency Management offers training and public education:

Emergency preparedness presentations

CPR, first aid, and safety training

Emergency Preparedness Expo Community Event

The Great ShakeOut earthquake drill

Community Events

In addition to the information provided, staff would be happy to schedule a presentation and provide information at your company or event. Please call (360) 249-3911 to schedule a presentation for your group.