Emergencies in Galveston County require a coordinated response. GCOEM works to ensure information gathering, decision making, and resource allocations are carried out efficiently. There are many components that make up all of GCOEM's Emergency Response.  Below are a few of the ways the agency handles emergencies:

Incident monitoring:
GCOEM tracks incidents affecting Galveston County. GCOEM staff continuously monitor radio frequencies used by County and City emergency responders, local and national news, weather conditions, and 911 calls, among other communications channels. It also maintains the County's communication link with local, state, and federal agencies, and notifies officials when incidents or issues of concern arise.

Field response:

GCOEM sends field responders to larger incidents to facilitate interagency communication and resource requests. GCOEM’s on-scene coordinators also help ensure responding agencies follow incident command protocols.

Emergency Operations Center:
During major emergencies and special events, GCOEM activates the County's Emergency Operations Center (EOC). With space for more than 50 representatives from local, state, and federal agencies and private and non-profit entities, the EOC functions as a central clearinghouse for information coordination, resource requests, and decision making.

Recovery and Relief:
Following an emergency, GCOEM works with government agencies and nonprofit organizations to provide assistance to diaster victims and manage relief efforts, donations, and spontaneous volunteers.