Local Entities Form Unified Emergency Operations Center Amid Coronavirus Situation

While Chelan and Douglas county had their own emergency command center established near the beginning of the coronavirus situation, they combined with Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, and the Chelan-Douglas Health District March 23rd to form a Unified Emergency Operations Center.

Douglas County Sheriff Kevin Morris said unification of response efforts will result in increased efficiency and resource availability. The move also means a consistent message between entities.

"We will be getting information out a little bit more fluid, and absolutely consistent with one another." Morris explained, "Sometimes one agency might hear something quicker than the other, and it can create more confusion than it helps."

Morris added that they will continue to use the unified command until they are sure the COVID-19 situation has passed.

"Several times, even if it appears to be over, we will continue to have this unified command put together." Morris said, "Much like fire officials will keep those (command centers) running even during a mop-up period."

More information and all future communication can be found at www.cdeoc.org.