As a team CCDES staff coordinates and works closely with local, state, federal and private sector groups to serve the residents of Clinton County when confronted with the potential for natural or technological hazards. In our disaster management preparation CCDES follows an all hazards comprehensive approach to emergency management. This comprehensive approach follows a four (4) step cycle.

 Comprehensive Four Step Cycle

• Mitigation - Activities which actually eliminate or reduce the chance of occurrence or the effects of a disaster.
• Preparedness - Planning how to respond in case an emergency or disaster occurs and also working to increase resources available to respond effectively.
• Response – The ongoing activities during and immediately following the occurrence of a disaster.
• Recovery – A process to return all systems to normal, or near normal.

In order to ensure the continuation of this four (4) step cycle CCDES depends on the support it receives from a large number of volunteers and numerous volunteer groups throughout Clinton County. These dedicated volunteers provide the county with expert knowledge as Emergency Operations Center Staff members and as members of the CCDES Emergency Response and Support Team. Additionally, this group of volunteers is instrumental in providing key information and technical assistance during times of emergency or disaster. The information and assistance enables staff to prepare for the needs of our residents when tragedy strikes. Without the dedication of these volunteers, valuable time in a disaster situation could be lost when seconds could mean the difference between life and death.