Supercharging Emergency Management Across Miami-Dade

In one of the largest counties in the country, with 34 municipalities, more than 2.7 Million residents, and a record-breaking 28 million visitors in 2024, Miami‑Dade County’s Department of Emergency Management (DEM) plays a critical role in reducing risk and vulnerability, mitigating against hazards,  planning for, responding to, and recovering from disasters. Along with year-round readiness efforts, the County continues to host large-scale events welcoming global and local audiences - from Art Basel and concerts to World Cup matches and Formula 1 races - with DEM increasingly playing a role to ensure safety for these major gatherings. DEM supports these events by crafting emergency plans, hosting training and exercises to develop and enhance capabilities, supporting response through Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activations, building and sustaining interagency partnerships, coordinating public messaging, and guiding recovery. 

Access to data, accurate information, and analytical tools provides valuable situational awareness and ensures that officials and residents can anticipate hazards, make informed decisions, and coordinate resources. Embracing industry best practices and seeking opportunities to innovate drives positive growth, creative solutions to complex problems, and improves operational efficiency year-round. Investments in community preparedness and resilience empower neighborhoods to act, adapt, and recover quickly from disruptions, reducing reliance on external aid.

With tighter budgets and reduced federal resources, local governments and municipalities ability to incorporate innovation isn't optional, it's essential. Leveraging technology and innovation can help fill critical gaps, providing alternative solutions that streamline operations, enhance local capacity, and ensure communities remain prepared despite disruptions.