Response & Recovery

The response phase is a reaction to the occurrence of a catastrophic disaster or emergency. It consists of actions which are aimed at saving lives, reducing economic losses, and alleviating suffering. The response phase comprises the coordination and management of resources utilizing the Incident Command System. Community coordinated response actions may include activating the emergency operations center, working with the Sheriff’s Office on evacuations of threatened populations, assisting and promoting the opening of shelters, making sure that communication with media and the public is consistent and timely, and coordinating with community partners for mass care, emergency rescue and medical care, firefighting, and search and rescue.

Recovery consists of those activities that continue beyond the emergency period to restore critical community functions and begin to manage stabilization efforts. The recovery phase begins immediately after the threat to human life has subsided. The goal of the recovery phase is to bring the affected area back to some degree of normalcy, including the restoration of basic services and the repair of physical, social, and economic damages. Typical recovery actions that Emergency Management will assist or coordinate debris cleanup programs, help facilitate financial assistance for individuals, property owners, cities or communities, work with public works on plans for rebuilding of roads and bridges and key facilities, and coordinate with county departments and community partners for sustained mass care for displaced human and animal populations.

For more information on emergency preparedness, upcoming events, or to get in touch with Emergency Manager Emily Ring please call or email:

Phone: (541) 440-6025

Email: emily.ring@douglascountyor.gov