MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. — The Mobile County Emergency Management Agency (MCEMA) has received the Alabama Association of Emergency Managers’ Large County Preparedness Award, recognizing the agency’s commitment to emergency preparedness and public safety.

The award recognizes MCEMA’s community preparedness efforts and its achievement of national accreditation through the Emergency Management Accreditation Program (EMAP), which is the emergency management profession’s highest standard. In 2025, Mobile County EMA became the first county emergency management agency in Alabama to earn EMAP accreditation and was one of only five county agencies accredited that year.

Presented during the association’s annual conference, the award honors emergency management agencies that demonstrate excellence in planning, training, coordination, and community preparedness.

“Preparedness doesn’t happen during a disaster; it happens long before one,” said Mobile County EMA Director Mike Evans. “This award reflects the dedication of our team and the strong partnerships we have with local governments, first responders, nonprofits, volunteers, and state and federal agencies. Our recent accreditation challenged us to evaluate every aspect of our organization against national standards, and we’re proud that Mobile County EMA has now also been recognized by peers across Alabama.”

ABOUT MOBILE COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY:

Established in 1952 in response to federal, state, and local guidelines, the Mobile County Emergency Management Agency (MCEMA) serves as Mobile County’s lead agency for emergency planning, coordination, and disaster response. On June 8, 1987, the Mobile County Commission formally designated MCEMA as the county’s emergency planning district. The agency works with local governments, public safety agencies, nonprofits, and community partners to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies affecting Mobile County. In 2025, MCEMA earned national accreditation through the Emergency Management Accreditation Program (EMAP), becoming the only county emergency management agency in Alabama to hold the distinction. Mike Evans is MCEMA’s Director.

Photo – Mobile County EMA Director Mike Evans (center) accepts the Alabama Association of Emergency Managers’ Large County Preparedness Award from AAEM President David Martin of Russell County (left) and First Vice President Tim Sartin of Cullman County (right).