VDEM Highlights 24/7/365 Readiness During National Preparedness Month

RICHMOND, VA – As National Preparedness Month continues, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) is reminding Virginians that while disasters can strike at any time, the Commonwealth is always ready to respond. VDEM operates around the clock, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, ensuring continuous support for communities across Virginia.

At the core of this mission is VDEM’s Situational Awareness Unit (SAU), located inside the Virginia Emergency Operations Center (VEOC), which is staffed around the clock. Serving as the State Warning Point, the SAU is the primary entry point for communication with the VEOC. The team functions as the central hub for operational activities, coordinating situational assessments, issuing alerts and warnings, managing resources, supporting operational planning, compiling reports, and facilitating communications between state and local emergency response agencies.

In addition to the SAU, VDEM maintains three specialized on-call teams that rotate each week to provide comprehensive support across multiple emergency functions. Team members rotate through roles in operations, planning, geographic information systems (GIS), communications, information technology, search and rescue, hazardous materials, and regional support for all seven regions of the Commonwealth. This staffing model ensures that no matter the time of day or type of incident, Virginia is ready to respond.

“Preparedness is not just for hurricane season or major storms—it’s every day, all year,” said Acting State Coordinator John Scrivani. “VDEM’s dedicated staff and partners ensure Virginia is always ready to support our localities and protect our communities.”

Governor Glenn Youngkin praised the agency’s around-the-clock readiness, stating:
“The men and women of VDEM are on duty every hour of every day, working to keep Virginians safe. Their commitment ensures that no matter the challenge—whether it’s a hurricane, winter storm, or unexpected emergency—our Commonwealth is prepared to respond quickly and effectively. I encourage every Virginian to join in that spirit of preparedness by making their own emergency plans and staying informed.”

As VDEM highlights its own 24/7 readiness, Virginians are encouraged to take steps to ensure their households are prepared as well. Families should review emergency plans, check supply kits, and stay informed by signing up for local alerts and following official guidance from public safety agencies.

For more information on preparedness resources, visit www.vaemergency.gov.

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For more information, please contact us at PIO@vdem.virginia.gov

Agency Contact