Emergency Communications During an emergency situation, the rapid dissemination of information to the general public can mean the difference between disaster and safety. Recognizing this, Columbia County has developed an emergency communication plan designed to ensure rapid, timely and accurate dissemination of vital information to the citizens of the county.

Columbia County will utilize the television and radio station based Emergency Alert System (EAS) to disseminate information during emergency situations. The Emergency Alert System is an automated system that once activated, interrupts programming of all radio and television stations in the immediate area, and the emergency information is transmitted. It is for this reason that the Columbia County Department of Health is recommending that all residents maintain a battery operated radio (and spare batteries) in their personal or family disaster supply kit.

Along with the EAS, local law enforcement agencies and the local fire departments will utilize the public announcement (PA) systems on their vehicles and if required, will perform door-to-door notifications to alert residents about an emergency situation in their communities.