About Us

Mission

To provide comprehensive disaster management services to individuals and organizations of all sizes. With a dedicated team to support community preparedness for, response to, and recovery from disasters in a timely and effective manner.

Vision

A resilient Anguilla through effective partnerships where no lives are lost after a crisis.

Our Values

Our Functions

what makes us different

Laws and Authority

This involves the Territorial laws and implementing regulations that establish the legal authority for the development and implementation of the disaster management programme and organization, and defines the emergency powers, authorities, responsibilities of the Governor, elected officials, and the Director of the Department of Disaster Management.

Hazard Mitigation

The intent of a hazard mitigation process is to target resources and prioritize mitigation activities to lessen the effects of disasters to the population, communities, businesses, industries, and government.

Resource Managment

Resource management involves the systematic development of methodologies for the prompt and effective identification, acquisition, distribution, accounting, and use of personnel, facilities, and major items of equipment for essential emergency functions.

Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA)

Anguilla’s Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment process involves the identification of hazards and the assessment of risks to persons, public and private property, and structures. The data collected at the community/island level provides much of the data Anguilla will use to produce its assessment of risk. The information collected during the HIRA will also be used for more detailed damage and loss estimation projections.

Planning

Our services involve the development of several types of plans. This function deals with the most important plan: a Comprehensive Disaster Management Strategy and Programming Framework (CDMSPF) that outlines an approach for reducing the hazards that Anguilla faces and focuses on emergency response and short-term recovery from a disaster occurrence.

Control and Coordination

During the pre-, trans-, and post-phases of the emergency response, direction, control, and coordination allow officials to 1) analyze the situation and decide how to quickly and effectively respond; 2) direct and coordinate response forces; 3) coordinate with other jurisdictions; and 4) use available resources efficiently and effectively.

Communication and Warning Systems

Communications involve establishing, using, maintaining, augmenting, and providing backups for all types of communications devices required in day-to-day emergency and response operations. Warning comprises the dissemination of information to Government officials and the public and timely forecasts of all hazards requiring emergency response actions.

Operations and Procedures

Development, coordination, and implementation of operational plans and procedures are fundamental to effective disaster response and recovery. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and checklists provide the detailed instructions that an organization needs to fulfill responsibilities assigned in the National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP)

Logistics and Facilities

The identification, location, acquisition, distribution, and accounting for services, resources, material, and facilities are required to adequately support disaster management activities. For major incidents, the National Mechanism will work closely with our team to coordinate logistical needs.

Training

Assessment, development, and implementation of a training/educational programme for public/private officials and emergency response personnel.

Exercises

A programme of regularly scheduled exercises, designed for assessment and evaluation of emergency response plans and capabilities, is critical to the Territory’s Disaster Management Programme.

Community Information and Outreach

Public Information and Education provides the general public with education on the nature of hazards, protective measures, and an awareness of the responsibilities of Government and citizens in an emergency/disaster. During a disaster event, this function focuses on providing accurate, timely, and useful information and instructions to people at risk in the community throughout the emergency period.

The National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC)

When required, facilitate the procurement and movement of resources, communications and coordination for the response agencies. Equip, staff and manage the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).

Regional Relationship

Lead in the execution of Anguilla’s obligations as a CDEMA participating state and other agencies including OECS, WHO, PAHO.

Focal Point

Act as the Disaster Management focal point with neighboring states and regional and international agencies.

Shelter Management

We oversee the identification, designation, preparation, inspection and operation of emergency shelters across Anguilla.

See the team that carries out the functions

Who We Are

The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is an essential establishment that plays a crucial role in managing and responding to disastrous events. This office is responsible for coordinating emergency operations, providing aid and relief to affected areas, and ensuring the safety and well-being of the population during times of crisis.

Our dedicated team of professionals at the Disaster Office works tirelessly to prepare for, respond to, and recover from various types of disasters, including natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and wildfires, as well as human-made disasters such as terrorist attacks and industrial accidents. With the goal of minimizing the impact of disasters on communities, the Disaster Office focuses on prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.

This includes implementing early warning systems, conducting risk assessments, developing emergency plans, coordinating rescue and relief efforts, and assisting in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of affected areas. By fostering collaboration with national and international agencies, local government bodies, and community organizations, the Disaster Office strives to ensure a swift, well-coordinated, and effective response to emergencies. Our ultimate aim is to protect lives, minimize damage, and support affected individuals and communities on their path to recovery.

Disaster practitioners are the heroes who emerge in the darkest moments, selflessly serving others and helping communities rebuild. Their unwavering dedication and resilience in the face of adversity inspire hope and remind us of the power of humanity.

No matter what the challenge, we are committed to providing the guidance and resources necessary to protect our communities.