Welcome

Welcome to the Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (OHSEM) Web site. Updated daily, this Web site gives you the tools to get informed, get prepared, and get involved. An involved community is a well prepared community and your family’s partnership with Harris County is the foundation of our homeland security and emergency management strategy. Harris County Judge Ed Emmett and OHSEM hope you will visit our site often. Download HCOHSEM Disaster Preparedness Guide here Download National Preparedness Month 2010 brochure here

What Are the Tools of Hazard Mitigation?

Land use planning & regulation of the development in hazard-prone areas, such as prohibiting new construction in a floodplain, along a coastline or in any other hazard prone area. Enforcement of building codes and environmental regulations. Public safety measures such as continual maintenance of roadways, culverts and dams. Acquisition or relocation of properties, such as purchasing buildings located in a floodplain. Retrofitting of structures & design of new construction such as elevating a home or building. Coastal zone management, such as dune restoration and harbor safety measures. Comprehensive emergency planning, preparedness and recovery. What is Hazard Mitigation? What are the Benefits? What can I do?