Nicholas Beard, Communications Manager, Bryan County.

As meteorologists predict an active hurricane season, Bryan County Fire and Emergency Services, Emergency Management Agency (EMA), and Public Works Department are ramping up their efforts to ensure the community is well-prepared for any storms that may come their way. The coordinated response by these agencies highlights a yearlong dedication to building resilience against natural and man-made emergencies, ensuring that the community can swiftly recover should disaster strike.

The Bryan County Emergency Management Agency operates continuously to foster a resilient community. While hurricanes often capture the most attention, the county is also vulnerable to heavy rain, flooding, and tornadoes, alongside potential man-made emergencies. The EMA’s mission is to minimize impacts on life and property and facilitate rapid recovery. By fostering a network of public and private partnerships, the agency has developed robust relationships and detailed plans to meet these goals effectively.

Beyond the Fire and Emergency Services Department, several key appointed and elected officials in Bryan County play pivotal roles in all phases of emergency management. Their expertise has been instrumental in continually updating the list of critical infrastructure. Efforts have been made to safeguard these vital assets, and comprehensive plans are in place to restore essential services quickly if they are disrupted.

The Bryan County Public Works Department is crucial during and after storms. The department has established contracts with IEM (Innovative Emergency Management) for Disaster Recovery and FEMA Public Assistance consulting services, Ceres Environmental for Disaster Debris Removal, and Tetra Tech for Debris Removal Monitoring.

In preparation for storms, the Public Works Department takes several proactive steps. These include providing sand and sandbags for county residents, pre-positioning equipment for debris removal, securing county facilities, parks, and park features, and managing and securing fuel for county vehicles and equipment.

After a storm, the department focuses on clearing debris from county roads, collecting and removing debris from county rights-of- way, cleaning up county parks, coordinating and monitoring repairs to county facilities, and managing fuel for county vehicles and equipment.

Bryan County’s Hazard Mitigation Plan, updated periodically, helps guide the county’s efforts to improve its emergency response capabilities. The plan has helped bolster grant applications for warning sirens and generators. Through strategic planning, experienced leadership, and comprehensive emergency management strategies, Bryan County is committed to building a resilient community. As the active hurricane season approaches, the county’s coordinated efforts across various departments ensure that residents are prepared and protected, with plans in place to restore normalcy swiftly in the aftermath of any disaster.

Nicholas Beard is the Communications Manager for the government of Bryan County.