(A) The Fire Department shall be the central coordinating agency for activities and programs relating to emergency and disaster mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery among agencies and officials of the town, the state, and federal agencies; and with other private and quasi-official organizations. The Fire Department shall be responsible and have the duties of the following except where specifically assigned to another.
(1) Through public informational programs, educating the populace as to actions necessary and required for the protection of their persons and property in case of disaster or terrorism, either impending or present;
(2) Manage exercises to insure efficient operation of the emergency management forces and to familiarize residents and partner agencies with emergency management regulations, procedures and operations;
(3) Monitor and advise the Town Manager of any and all threats, emergencies or disasters that pose a risk to the lives and safety of the residents and visitors of the town, proposing solutions for their decision on how to best protect people and property from imminent danger, or from further damage;
(4) Procure supplies and equipment, institute training programs, public preparedness information and education programs, manage and coordinate disaster drills and exercises in accordance with emergency plans;
(5) Manage the Town Emergency Operations Center as the central coordinating entity for the town during major emergencies or disasters.
(B) A town-wide, all hazards emergency operations plan shall be implemented and maintained. In the preparation of this plan, the services, equipment, facilities and personnel of all existing departments shall be utilized to the fullest extent. When the plan is approved by the Town Manager, each department shall perform those functions assigned to it by the plan and shall maintain a current state of readiness at all times.
(C) When a skill required for a disaster relief function is not available within local government, assistance shall be sought beyond the local government resources.
(D) The town shall operate all disaster and emergency response by complying with the National Incident Management System and using the Incident Command System.
(Ord. 17-10, passed 9-11-19)