Emergency Communication

The ability to communicate and share information during emergencies is critical, especially in a region as large and complex as metropolitan Washington. Past incidents, most notably 9/11, highlight the need for officials to quickly connect with each other to coordinate decisions across various local, state, and federal agencies. Governments also need tools to communicate messages to the public, and the public must be assured it can contact public safety providers without fail.

COG has helped enhance emergency communication among officials across the region in a variety of ways.

• After 9/11, COG created and maintains the Regional Incident Communication and Coordination System (RICCS), a 24/7 system that helps officials communicate during emergencies.
• COG coordinates regional conference calls for snow or other weather-related emergencies where leaders discuss conditions and make decisions on operating statuses, such as closing government offices.
• COG works to ensure reliable and uninterrupted 9-1-1 service as well as citizen warning systems and emergency text and email alert systems are also major priorities for COG and its members.