Emergency Management & Preparedness

The authority for emergency management within the Town of Walden rests with the Mayor and the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, as communicated to residents through our Town Administrator. The Mayor or Town Administrator serves as the chief executive officer responsible for coordinating emergency response activities, issuing public communications, and declaring a local state of emergency when necessary. The mayor or a designated municipal representative also coordinates municipal resources and resident communication, working in partnership with county officials.

For larger emergencies affecting multiple jurisdictions, the Town coordinates with the Hamilton County Emergency Operations Center to request additional personnel, equipment, or logistical support. During significant emergencies, Walden also works directly with Hamilton County leadership, including the County Mayor, Chief of Staff, and District 2 Commissioner, who assist in coordinating municipal government and county resources, including emergency management support and regional response planning.

Severe weather and natural disasters frequently affect Walden, causing fallen trees, blocked roadways, and power outages. Restoring safe travel and access requires close coordination between emergency responders, utility providers, and county agencies. Roadway clearing and infrastructure restoration are prioritized as follows: emergency response routes, residential areas with limited ingress or egress, access routes for medical or emergency personnel, and major transportation corridors serving the community.

Walden is home to the Bachman Community Center, which is registered with the American Red Cross as an emergency center. If activated, Bachman Community Center can open for Red Cross operations within approximately one hour and may serve as a distribution site for emergency supplies, water, and humanitarian aid. While the facility has limitations for long-term sheltering, it may be used as a temporary shelter for displaced residents when local conditions require it.

Residents are encouraged to maintain emergency supplies sufficient to sustain their household for at least 72 hours. Recommended items include water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, portable phone chargers, first aid supplies, prescription medications, and weather-appropriate clothing.

• Sign up for Regroup to receive Hamilton County Emergency Notifications via text, email and voice alerts.
• Sign up to receive FEMA disaster and emergency alerts for our area at Ready.gov.
• Go to Ready.gov|BeInformed for guidance on how to prepare for, keep safe during, and respond to hazards.
• Download the FEMA App for:
  • Real-time weather and emergency alerts
  • Notifications to loved ones
  • Shelter locations
  • Preparedness strategies

The Tennessee Yellow Dot Program is a free safety initiative designed to help first responders access vital medical information in an emergency. In a crash or medical emergency, every second counts. The Yellow Dot gives medical personnel instant access to your medications, medical conditions, allergies, and emergency contacts so they can make fast, informed decisions.

Pick up your free Yellow Dot packet at Walden Town Hall.