About DEMA
The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is the lead state agency for the coordination of comprehensive emergency preparedness, training, response, recovery and mitigation services in order to save lives, protect Delaware's economic base, and reduce the impact of emergencies.
DEMA is a division within the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS) and is authorized by Delaware Code, Title 20,Chapter 31§3101-3130.
Annual Reports
These "Year in Review" annual reports highlight the key accomplishments made by DEMA over each calendar year.
For previous reports, contact our office.
History
In 1951, the Delaware Civil Defense Act was enacted. This groundbreaking legislation empowered our state to gear up against not just natural disasters, but also the threats of enemy attack, sabotage, and other hostile actions that were a stark reality of the Cold War era.
A formidable, 10,000 square-foot mortar bunker nestled within the historic grounds of Fort Dupont was determined as the first home for the Delaware Department of Civil Defense. The foundational years of the Delaware Department of Civil Defense focused on forming a resilient state, which meant bolstering partnerships with law enforcement, civil air patrol, firefighters, health and medical services, and engineers.
With the passing of the Cold War threat, the Delaware Department of Civil Defense began undergoing a series of changes to ensure it aligned with the current needs of Delawareans. In 1971, the Delaware Department of Civil Defense pivoted to the Delaware Division of Emergency Planning and Operations (DEPO).
At DEPO, emergency managers began shifting their focus to address mitigation, preparedness planning, response, and recovery from natural, technological, and human-related disasters. One incident that DEPO assisted with was the Delaware response to the Three Mile Island Incident, which helped pave the way for nuclear safety in our state.
By 1993, the Division of Emergency Planning and Operations changed its name to the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA). By 1998, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency had begun to move to their new state-of-the-art facility in Smyrna.
The new facility would house the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and would be known for its ability to withstand a moderate earthquake, 120 mph winds, and lightning.
The Delaware Emergency Management Agency has worked with the public to assist on numerous disasters and emergencies including: Hurricane Floyd, Y2K, Hurricane Irene, Hurricane Sandy, multiple snowstorms, tropical storms, tornadoes, and flooding events, the COVID-19 Pandemic, Civil Unrest, Election Security, and Avian Flu.
