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First Coast Disaster Council

Prepare. Respond. Recover.

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Welcome to the First Coast Disaster Council (FCDC)

The First Coast Disaster Council (FCDC) is based in Northeast Florida and specializes in coordinating community-wide training and education, healthcare disaster preparedness, healthcare disaster response, and recovery efforts across multiple counties, including Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam, and St. Johns. FCDC collaborates with local healthcare facilities and fire rescue emergency response agencies to develop efficient, evidence-based disaster procedures.

FCDC also builds strong relationships and partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to enhance public safety in and around healthcare facilities. Working closely with local and state Emergency Operation Centers, FCDC strives to create comprehensive emergency management plans.

Other critical stakeholders include the Department of Health, Healthcare Coalition Government agencies, Jacksonville International Airport, and local school systems. FCDC’s activities encompass organizing disaster exercises and promoting preparedness initiatives tailored to the unique risks in the area, such as mass casualty response, cyber safety and readiness, hurricanes, and flooding.

WHO WE ARE

FCDC works at the intersection of healthcare, emergency response, and community safety. By partnering with healthcare facilities, local fire rescue agencies, and law enforcement, we create and implement disaster strategies designed to protect lives and minimize disruption. Our collaborative efforts extend to local and state Emergency Operation Centers, ensuring alignment with broader emergency management frameworks.

Our Partnerships

Building strong relationships is at the core of our mission. FCDC collaborates with:

  • Healthcare Facilities: To develop preparedness and response protocols tailored to their needs.
  • Law Enforcement Agencies: To enhance public safety within and around healthcare facilities.
  • Local and State Emergency Operation Centers: To create comprehensive, actionable emergency management plans.
  • Key Stakeholders: Including the Department of Health, Healthcare Coalitions, Jacksonville International Airport, and local school systems, to strengthen regional resilience.

Jacksonville Emergency Preparedness

Nassau County Emergency Management

Baker County Emergency Management

Clay County Emergency Management

Flagler County Emergency Management

Putnam County Emergency Management

FBI Jacksonville Field Office

Homeland Security

Jacksonville Fire & Rescue Division

Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office

Accension St. Vincent Healthcare System

Baptist Health System Jacksonville, FL

University of Florida Health System Shands, Jacksonville

    WHAT WE DO

    Strengthening Healthcare Preparedness

    Healthcare facilities are central to any disaster response, but they often face unique challenges such as patient surges, supply shortages, and power outages. The FCDC provides training, planning, and coordinated exercises that prepare healthcare workers to respond effectively to emergencies, ensuring continuity of care during crises.

    Facilitating Cross-Sector Collaboration

    Disasters impact multiple sectors simultaneously—healthcare, public safety, infrastructure, and the general community. The FCDC fosters collaboration among hospitals, emergency responders, public health agencies, and other stakeholders, ensuring that healthcare professionals are not working in silos but as part of a unified regional effort.

    Addressing Region-Specific Risks

    Northeast Florida faces threats such as hurricanes, flooding, and severe storms. These events can overwhelm healthcare systems if unprepared. Organizations like FCDC tailor preparedness plans and resources to the specific risks of the region, ensuring that healthcare workers are equipped to handle local challenges.

    Supporting Healthcare Workers

    Disaster situations often take a toll on healthcare workers’ mental and physical health. FCDC can offer resources, training, and exercises that promote resilience and reduce burnout among healthcare staff, ensuring they can continue to serve their communities effectively.

    Enhancing Community Trust

    When healthcare systems are well-prepared for disasters, it fosters trust and confidence among community members. FCDC’s work ensures that healthcare providers are ready to meet community needs during emergencies, bolstering public confidence in their safety and care.

    Promoting Efficiency in Resource Allocation

    FCDC helps streamline communication and resource distribution during disasters, reducing duplication of efforts and ensuring that healthcare facilities receive timely support.

    Contributing to Long-Term Recovery

    Beyond immediate disaster response, FCDC plays a crucial role in long-term recovery by assisting healthcare organizations in rebuilding and enhancing their preparedness for future events, thus contributing to a more resilient healthcare infrastructure.

    Northeast Florida – Florida’s First Coast

    The counties that we serve:

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