August is Emergency Management Awareness Month, and Cass County is proud to highlight the vital role emergency managers play in preparing for and responding to disasters and emergencies—while also welcoming a new face to lead those efforts locally.

This year marks the first-ever National Emergency Management Awareness Month, launched by the U.S. Council of the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM-USA). The nationwide initiative shines a spotlight on the profession of emergency management, promoting a better understanding of the work emergency managers do to keep communities safe and resilient.

Cass County is taking this opportunity to not only raise awareness but also introduce the community to its newly appointed Emergency Manager, Cole Baker.

“Emergency Management Awareness Month is a great way for the community to engage with the Emergency Manager - and for the Manager to engage with the community. When it comes to disaster management we are all in this together,” Baker said.

Emergency managers serve as the behind-the-scenes coordinators before, during, and after disasters—from floods and blizzards to large public events. They work closely with first responders, public health, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private businesses to ensure communities are ready for anything.

Throughout August, Cass County Emergency Management encourages residents and community partners to learn more about what emergency management is, how they can be better prepared, and how to get involved.

To learn more about emergency preparedness in Cass County, visit casscountynd.gov/emergency-management or follow us on social media for regular updates throughout Emergency Management Awareness Month.