The state Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is activated for response to large-scale emergencies beyond the resources of local emergency services offices. The West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management staff monitors events and coordinates resource needs with state agencies and nonprofits. The list of agencies participating is need driven by the emergency event.

For flood emergencies, the EOC is usually staffed by representatives from various state agencies including: the Conservation Agency, Fire Marshal’s Office, Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Health and Human Resources, Division of Highways, Department of Natural Resources, Public Service Commission and State Police. Personnel from the American Red Cross also participate in activations. Federal agencies such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Bureau of Investigations send representatives when needed.

Communication is very important aspect of emergency response. The EOC has a variety of communication capacities.
– Phone – land, cellular and satellite
– E-Team™ - Collaborative Emergency Management System via Internet
– FAX
– Amateur Radio