The ODPM, established by Cabinet in 2005, is responsible for leading the national effort in protecting public health and safety; restoring essential government services and providing emergency relief to those affected severely by hazards. The agency is the principal player in leading the nation’s effort in preparing for, responding to and recovering from disasters. By its very mandate the ODPM is committed to formulating an all-hazard approach to emergency/risk management. This all- hazard approach encompasses a comprehensive framework that includes mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. The ODPM is also responsible for mobilizing all the key players, such as the Protective Services, all Government Ministries and Agencies, Non Governmental Organisations, Community and Faith- Based Organisations, and resources to bring about the best possible approach to reducing the loss of life and damage to property resources. Additionally, it is also one of three sub-regional focal points in the Caribbean region. The four sub-regional focal points are Trinidad, Barbados, Antigua and Jamaica and each is responsible for territories which are geographically close to them.

After the establishment of the ODPM in 2005, the Prime Minister mandated that the 1st Engineer Battalion of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force be established to assist in disaster relief and to support the efforts of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM).

The military personnel placed at the ODPM have specific skills and training in logistics, relief coordination and telecommunications that are useful to the effective operations of the organization.

No. The ODPM is a division of the Ministry of National Security and reports to the National Security Council and the Inter Ministerial Committee for Disaster Risk Management.

Yes. There are military personnel at our Call Centre and Radio Room on a 24/7 basis to ensure that communication with the public is always maintained.

Persons from the Disaster Management Units which reside under the Ministry of Local Government as well as other first responder agencies such as the Trinidad and Tobago Police Services and the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service will primarily be seen in the community. However, ODPM officials may be seen in the community if the situation requires better reconnaissance for the management and coordination of these first responder agencies by the ODPM.

It is the centralized centre which treats with coordination and management of all emergency/disaster response and relief operations. It is occupied/staffed by Emergency Support Functions (ESF’s) who represent the relevant and participating Ministries and Government Agencies. The NEOC can be activated at a partial level or full time.

Some first responders include: The Municipal Corporations, Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service (TTFS), Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF), Special Anti-Crime Unit of Trinidad and Tobago (SAUTT), Global Medical Response Trinidad and Tobago (GMRTT).

For a structure to be considered a shelter it must meet the following standards: 1. It must adhere strictly to building codes. 2. The structure should be capable of being retrofitted, if necessary. 3. There should be on-going maintenance of the facility. 4. The potential for security problems should be minimal.

You can contact the Disaster Management Unit of the Regional, City or Borough Corporation within which you live or the ODPM. This information is also published in the press and available on the website (www.odpm.gov.tt).