Carrie Carl outlines emergency management strategies for local disaster response

The City of Bend's Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting on March 27, 2025, featured a comprehensive overview of emergency management presented by Carrie Carl, the director of risk and emergency management. Carl emphasized the critical role local authorities play in disaster response, highlighting that emergencies begin and end at the local level.

Carl explained that her department focuses on reducing community vulnerability to disasters and improving the city's ability to cope with them. She outlined the four phases of emergency management: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. Each phase is essential for effective disaster management, with a particular emphasis on the importance of planning and coordination across various departments and community organizations.

A significant point raised was the need for a whole-community approach to emergency management. Carl stressed the importance of understanding the diverse needs of all community members, especially those who may face barriers during a disaster. She encouraged collaboration with different committees to identify gaps in the city's emergency response plans.

Carl also discussed specific mitigation efforts, such as applying for funding to enhance the water filtration facility's resilience against potential disasters like wildfires. This proactive approach aims to ensure the continued availability of potable water even in crisis situations.

The meeting underscored the importance of local engagement in emergency management, with Carl inviting feedback from community members to strengthen the city's disaster preparedness and response strategies. As Bend continues to face various risks, the insights shared during this meeting will play a vital role in shaping a more resilient community.