The West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is ready to provide assistance when a disaster strikes. Following a natural or man-made disaster, local officials work through their local emergency management director to contact the WVDHSEM's 24-hour duty officer system. WVDHSEM contacts appropriate state and federal agencies, coordinates any requested state assistance such as National Guard or State Police resources and keeps the Governor's office informed.

The first response to a disaster is the job of local offices of emergency services with help from state and volunteer agencies. Response is the phase of emergency management in which emergency assistance is provided to save lives, preserve property and protect the environment.