Albemarle County, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Albemarle County Fire Rescue’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has been expanding its efforts to prepare for and respond to crises across the region. Deputy Chief John O’Prandy highlighted the county’s increasing investment in emergency preparedness, stating, “Over the past, I’d say five years or so, there’s been a lot of attention and investment that’s happened across the city, county, and university.” The county’s OEM works to ensure both government departments and the broader community can continue functioning during disruptions, such as natural disasters or public health emergencies. 

A key component of the county’s emergency response strategy is its collaboration with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. O’Prandy emphasized the importance of these partnerships, particularly during large-scale incidents like last year’s fire weather event, which saw over 30 fires in a single day. “We had resources coming from different areas of the state to come and help us because we’re just not built for that big of a day.” These mutual aid agreements ensure that Albemarle County can access additional support when local resources are overwhelmed. 

To further strengthen community preparedness, Albemarle County residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts. The system provides real-time updates, evacuation plans, and shelter-in-place guidance. “In the midst of an emergency is not the time to try to be downloading an app,” O’Prandy advised. He urged residents to register for notifications in advance through the CUA Alerts system, which enhances traditional emergency alerts by providing localized, post-disaster information. 

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