Two wall sized screens in a windowed room with a line of chairs monitoring severe weather to help keep DeKalb County residents safe.

Community Programs

Wall sized screen in a windowed room with a line of chairs and a long desk with phones and laptops ready to monitor severe weather to help keep DeKalb County residents safe.

The DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency works year round to help our community prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies of every scale.

Through a wide range of community programs, EMA provides residents,  businesses, and partners with the tools, training, and resources needed  to stay informed and build resilience. From preparedness education and volunteer opportunities to outreach initiatives that strengthen neighborhood readiness, these programs support a safer and more informed DeKalb County.

Extreme Temperature Centers

Finding Relief During Dangerous WeatherDeKalb County operates warming and cooling centers during extreme temperature events to provide safe refuge for residents.

Activation Criteria:

Heat Emergency: 100°F heat index or above for 4+ consecutive hours

Cold Emergency: 35°F wind chill or below for 4+ consecutive hours

Transportation Available: Call 404-334-3610

Current Warming & Cooling Centers: The current list of warming and cooling centers will be available upon activation and will be shared by Emergency Management via social media following any press releases from the CEO’s office. 

View the latest press releases:  
Press Releases  |  DeKalb County GA

Program Development Underway

Community-Based Emergency PlanningThe DeKalb County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) is a community-based organization responsible for developing local emergency plans and collecting information from businesses about hazardous materials.

LEPC Members Include:

  • Fire service representatives
  • Law enforcement officials
  • Public health professionals
  • Environmental agency staff
  • Local government officials
  • Facility representatives
  • Community volunteers

Our Responsibilities:

  • Develop comprehensive local emergency response plans
  • Collect and maintain hazardous materials inventory data
  • Coordinate emergency planning with businesses and industries
  • Provide community education about chemical hazards
  • Review and update emergency procedures annually

Get Involved:The LEPC welcomes anyone who can contribute to community protection and safety.

Meeting Information:Contact dekalbema@dekalbcountyga.gov for meeting dates and archived minutes.

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