ODPEM Verified listing

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) stands at the forefront of Jamaica’s national mission to build resilience, protect lives, and secure sustainable development through proactive disaster management. Established as a statutory body under the Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management Act, ODPEM serves as the central coordinating agency responsible for the country’s comprehensive approach to disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.

Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) – Jamaica

From hurricanes and floods to earthquakes, landslides, and droughts, Jamaica faces a wide range of natural and man-made hazards. ODPEM’s mandate is to minimize the impacts of these threats through strategic planning, community engagement, capacity building, and efficient coordination among public and private stakeholders. The agency operates under the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, functioning as the pivotal link between government institutions, emergency services, and the public.

Mission and Vision

ODPEM’s mission is to develop and implement effective disaster risk management systems that strengthen national resilience and safeguard the well-being of all Jamaicans. The organization envisions a nation that is fully prepared, informed, and capable of responding to and recovering from disasters in a timely and efficient manner. This vision is guided by principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and community empowerment.

Core Functions

ODPEM’s operations are built on four core pillars: preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery. Through a robust framework of policies and programs, the agency works to anticipate potential hazards, reduce vulnerabilities, and enhance national capacity to manage emergencies.

• Preparedness: ODPEM designs and implements public education campaigns, community-based training, and simulation exercises that equip citizens, institutions, and businesses with the knowledge and skills to act effectively in the face of emergencies. The organization promotes disaster readiness through the development of contingency plans and the maintenance of emergency shelters across the island.

• Mitigation: Efforts focus on reducing the long-term risks associated with natural disasters. ODPEM collaborates with local authorities, engineers, and environmental agencies to promote safe land-use planning, enforce building codes, and encourage sustainable development practices that limit exposure to hazards.

• Response: During emergencies, ODPEM coordinates national response operations. The agency activates the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), bringing together key government ministries, first responders, and relief organizations to ensure swift communication, resource allocation, and decision-making.

• Recovery: After disasters strike, ODPEM leads post-impact assessments, coordinates relief distribution, and supports the restoration of essential services. The agency also works with international partners to mobilize recovery assistance and ensure that rebuilding efforts align with long-term resilience goals.

Community Engagement and Public Awareness

One of ODPEM’s greatest strengths lies in its commitment to community participation. The agency believes that disaster risk management begins at the local level. Through school programs, workshops, and national campaigns such as “Hurricane Preparedness Month” and “Earthquake Awareness Week,” ODPEM empowers citizens with practical knowledge and promotes a culture of safety and responsibility.

Public communication is also a vital part of ODPEM’s work. The agency maintains an active presence across media platforms, providing real-time updates, safety tips, and official advisories during emergencies. By leveraging technology and collaboration, ODPEM ensures that accurate information reaches every corner of the island, supporting informed decision-making and reducing panic during crisis situations.

Partnerships and Collaboration

ODPEM’s effectiveness is reinforced by strong partnerships at the local, regional, and international levels. The agency works closely with organizations such as the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and various donor agencies to enhance Jamaica’s capacity for disaster risk reduction. Locally, ODPEM collaborates with ministries, local authorities, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations to integrate disaster management into national development planning.

A Commitment to Resilience

At its core, ODPEM is driven by the understanding that preparedness saves lives and builds stronger communities. By fostering collaboration, promoting education, and advancing innovation, the organization continues to transform Jamaica into a model of resilience in the Caribbean region. Each initiative, from emergency drills to policy development, reflects a steadfast dedication to protecting the nation’s people, infrastructure, and natural environment.

In a world facing increasing climate-related challenges, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management remains a beacon of leadership, preparedness, and hope. Through continuous improvement and national unity, ODPEM ensures that Jamaica is not only ready to respond to disasters but also equipped to recover stronger each time.

Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM)
Protecting People. Preserving the Nation. Building Resilience for the Future.

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Find Us

We are located at 2 - 4 Haining Road, Kingston.