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Emergency Planning & Operations
Planning Ahead to Reduce Risk and Strengthen Readiness
The Planning Division provides professional planning, analysis, and administrative support for emergency management efforts that help the community respond effectively during emergencies and disasters. The division’s primary role is to develop and manage plans, programs, and procedures that guide mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery activities. Using this four-phase approach supports readiness for incidents ranging from small local events to large-scale emergencies.
- Emergency Management Message Line: Provides brief updates related to the event. Call 252-902-3970
- EOC Hotline: Used to report non-life-threatening, event-related information. Call 252-902-3999
During larger emergencies, response agencies may be spread across several urgent needs. Staying informed and preparing ahead can help residents reduce risk while emergency teams focus on the most critical situations.
Coordinating Plans, Partners, and Preparedness
The Emergency Planner coordinates the annual review and updates of the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). This role also supports activities tied to the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), including developing procedures, maintaining records, and keeping key data current to support timely decision-making during an event.
This work is carried out in close coordination with federal, state, and local partners, including:
- American Red Cross
- North Carolina Emergency Management
- Nearby counties and municipalities
The Emergency Planner is also actively involved in planning and coordinating training and exercises for first responder agencies, helping teams practice roles and improve coordination before an emergency occurs.
Local Emergency Planning Committee
Through the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC), local agencies and community partners work together to support emergency preparedness and coordination related to hazardous materials.
Learn More About the Local Emergency Planning Committee
For Questions or More Information
Contact the Emergency Management Planning Division
Call 252-902-3962
Response During Larger Emergencies
Emergencies occur every day in Pitt County, and most incidents are handled through normal response operations. In some cases, however, an event may be large or complex enough to require a coordinated response and activation of the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
Why and When the EOC Is Activated
- Events exceed routine operations: Incidents that last several hours or continue over multiple days.
- A State of Emergency may be declared: This allows County Government to use authorities provided under North Carolina emergency statutes.
- Resource coordination is needed: When local responders need additional support, the EOC works with local, state, and federal partners to locate and deliver resources.
- Public information must be coordinated: Activation supports consistent updates and guidance to help residents reduce risk and respond appropriately.
- Multiple agencies are involved: Incidents that require coordination across departments or jurisdictions.
What Happens During EOC Activation
- Multiple agencies report to the EOC to support coordination and decision-making.
- The EOC remains open until the incident has ended and response needs are reduced.
- Operations follow 24-hour staffing plans, with personnel working 12-hour shifts.
The National Incident Management System, Incident Command System (ICS) uses a set of standardized forms and supporting documents that follow an all-hazards approach. These tools help ensure consistent planning, coordination, and documentation during incidents of any size or type.