Colorado Springs, Colo. — The Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management received the highest marks possible from the Emergency Management Accreditation Program.
“Receiving accreditation shows to Colorado Springs and El Paso County residents that its emergency management office stands ready to prepare our residents and respond to disasters by following the highest industry standards,” said Andrew Notbohm, Director of the Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management. “I’m proud of the work done by our staff and leadership in earning this accreditation, and we look forward to continuing the work for our residents and region.”
Providing emergency management programs the opportunity to be evaluated and recognized for compliance with standards certified by the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) and recognized by the industry complies with the EMAP’s mission to build safer communities through credible standards of excellence. These Programs demonstrate accountability and focus attention on areas and issues where resources are needed to heighten their preparedness efforts to any technical or natural disaster that may affect their communities.
“Our community’s preparedness and emergency response activities are in good hands with Andrew and his team, and this certification affirms that fact,” Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade said. “The partnership between the City of Colorado Springs and El Paso County from PPROEM protects, supports and provides better services to our residents.”
“This accomplishment is a testament to the unwavering commitment, expertise, and leadership of our Director Andrew Notbohm, and dedicated staff,” said El Paso County Board Chair Cami Bremer. “Their diligent efforts have elevated our region’s emergency preparedness to the highest standards, reinforcing our pledge to serve our community with the utmost professionalism and resilience. The collaboration between the city and county, working hand in hand, has been a crucial factor in achieving this milestone. Accreditation validates our relentless pursuit of excellence in emergency management.”
To achieve accreditation, applicants must demonstrate through self-assessment, documentation and peer assessment verification that its program meets the Emergency Management Standard. The emergency management program uses the accreditation to prove the capabilities of their disaster preparedness and response systems. Accreditation is valid for five years and the program must maintain compliance with the Emergency Management Standard and is reassessed to maintain accredited status.
“Congratulations to those Programs that have maintained their accredited status as well as those who have joined the elite leaders in emergency management having earned accreditation through the Emergency Management Accreditation Program. Through their commitment and leadership, they have proven to their communities and stakeholders that their Programs are sustainable and that they continue to focus on their communities’ best interests,” stated Angee Morgan, Deputy Director of Kansas Division of Emergency Management and the EMAP Commission Chair.
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Note to media:
The Colorado Springs City Council plans to recognize PPROEM’s reaccreditation at its regular meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 28, while the El Paso County Board of County Commissioners plan to do the same on Thursday, Nov. 30. Andrew Notbohm, Director of PPROEM, will be available at each meeting for any requested media interviews.