On recommendation of the Board of County Commissioners, the Governor appoints the Department's Director (Code Public Safety Article, sec. 14-109).
Assisted by the Emergency Services Committee, the Department is comprised of two divisions: Emergency Communications, and Emergency Management.
The Committee develops plans and programs to address emergency unit needs, such as budgetary concerns, and the recruitment, retention, and qualification of responders. Annually, each volunteer response unit that receives funds from the County must submit an operating budget to the Committee, as well as a financial audit report performed by a certified public accountant (County Code, secs. 46-1 through 46-3).
Composed of first responders and County public safety officials, the Committee is appointed by the Board of County Commissioners to three-year terms.
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS DIVISION
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIVISION
To enforce the Code, the County employs Animal Wardens who issue notice of Code violations, impound animals, conduct inspections of commercial establishments, and issue fines for violations of animal ordinances (County Code, secs. 212-1 through 212-18).
The Board is composed of nine members serving four-year terms, with three members appointed by each county's board of county commissioners.
The Deputy State Fire Marshal is appointed by the State Fire Marshal (Code Public Safety Article, sec. 6-303).
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Under the Department of Emergency Services and Technology, the Emergency Communications Division operates the public safety radio system, and the County’s emergency communication network. This network receives all 911 calls, which the Division then relays to the appropriate responders.
The Emergency Management Division coordinates with federal, State, and local agencies to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Developing emergency guidelines for residents, the Division keeps the public informed regarding emergencies. In preparation for future emergencies, the Agency seeks and distributes grant funds and hires contractors as needed to ensure emergency alert systems and evacuation routes are effective.
ANIMAL CONTROL
Under the Emergency Management Division, Animal Control enforces State and County animal regulations, and responds to calls regarding nuisance wildlife; unlicensed dogs; and injured, stray or unwanted domesticated animals. Animal Control also licenses commercial animal establishments, such as kennels and shelters. In addition, Animal Control issues vaccinations and dog licenses, registers all animal rescue organizations operating in the County, and assists in the operation of the Tri-County Animal Shelter.
TRI-COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER ADVISORY BOARD
In the execution of its duties, Animal Control is advised by the Tri-County Animal Shelter Advisory Board. Possessing no policy or regulatory powers, the Board advises animal control agencies and agents in Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties.
FIRE MARSHAL
For the Southern Region (Calvert, Charles & St. Mary’s counties), the Deputy State Fire Marshal serves as an assistant to the State Fire Marshal, and is responsible for fire safety in the Region. The Deputy oversees the investigation and enforcement of laws regarding arson; fire prevention; the installation and maintenance of fire detection and extinguisher equipment; the availability and adequacy of fire exits at public and commercial establishments; and the storage, sale, or use of explosives and combustibles (Code Public Safety Article, sec. 6-305).
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