The City of Des Plaines Emergency Management Agency is responsible for providing a Citywide Homeland Security and Emergency Management Program that will integrate all available first responders, city departments, resources, key elected and appointed officials, citizens corps, and the private sector into a cohesive disaster management effort. Under the direction of the mayor, city manager, executive coordinator, and the incident management team, tHave you ever seen a bad accident, large fire, or other incident and wondered how you could help? Do you want to be trained to help your community in the event of a major tornado, flood, or other large disaster? Have you ever had a desire to help your neighbor or give back to the community? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you should consider applying for the Des Plaines Emergency Management Agency volunteer program!

The City of Des Plaines Emergency Management Agency is responsible for providing a Citywide Homeland Security and Emergency Management Program that will integrate all available first responders, city departments, resources, key elected and appointed officials, citizens corps, and the private sector into a cohesive disaster management effort. Under the direction of the mayor, city manager, executive coordinator, and the incident management team, the agency is responsible for the planning and preparedness necessary to coordinate the elements of an effective Homeland Security and Emergency Management Program.

The agency, under the direction of the Fire Chief, is responsible for the planning and preparedness necessary to coordinate the elements and principles of Homeland Security, Emergency Management, Citizen Corps, and the National Incident Management System (NIMS) for the protection of the residents and visitors to our city.

Volunteers can be called out 24/7 to support police and fire departments at large incidents. Volunteer responsibilities include traffic control, scene lighting and security at accidents, fires, and other incidents, search and rescue operations, weather spotting, and auxiliary communications.

Members also help with public education, special events, disaster preparedness and maintaining response equipment.

Requirements to become a volunteer:

• Be a minimum of 18 years of age.
• Be a resident of the United States.
• Possess a valid driver's license.
• Be able to pass background screenings.
• Be willing to learn and participate in trainings.
• Be willing to work at pre-planned public events in support of local community activities.
• Be willing, when available, to respond to emergency calls for assistance when needed.

Interested in learning more? View this informational flyer.

To attend one of the upcoming orientation sessions, please contact Ofc. Katie Kozlowski.