Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office wins innovation award for disaster support

Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) --- The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Emergency Management Team was recognized recently at the annual Oregon Emergency Management Association conference for developing a collaborative program to support residents with access and functional needs during disasters.

The unit received the Oregon Emergency Management Association Innovation, Collaboration and Service Award, which honors contributions to emergency preparedness for underrepresented and underserved communities.

Emergency Management staff members Ben Duda and Ashley Volz accepted the award on behalf of the department's Emergency Management Unit. The team developed the program in partnership with County Health Services, county 911, Information Technology and Geographic Information Systems, the Oregon Department of Human Services Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, the Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon State Fire Marshal.

Special Services Lt. Nathan Garibay praised the emergency management staff, which also includes team member Rachelle Brookins, for maintaining year-round operations. “Our Emergency Management team of Duda, Volz and Brookins works tirelessly whenever an emergency requires public notification and support,” Garibay said. “Their efforts are often unseen, but they are committed year-round to ensuring timely information and assistance during challenging situations. I am very proud of their professionalism and dedication.”

The emergency support framework combines public outreach, voluntary alert system registration and annual data verification. The system uses real-time mapping, a virtual call center and coordinated welfare checks to contact residents needing extra help. Officials used the system during recent wildfire evacuations and the framework can be adapted for severe weather and other disaster events.

Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert emphasized the interagency coordination involved in building the program. “This initiative is truly an all-hands effort,” Rupert said. “By working closely with our partners, we are helping ensure that every community member, especially those who may face additional barriers during disasters, receives timely information and support. We are also committed to sharing this model with other jurisdictions to improve inclusive emergency preparedness throughout Oregon.”