Prince George's County, Maryland, USA
Interior Nat Harbor

About OHS

Organizational History

The Office of Homeland Security (OHS) was developed as a result of legislation passed in 2003.  This new agency incorporated critical emergency response entities that were previously part of other agencies.  

Public Safety Communications (PSC), which included all County 9-1-1, emergency dispatch and radio system support, had been part of the Office of Information Technology and Communications (OITC). Emergency Management (EM) was a division of the Fire/EMS Department. EM and PSC were combined under the leadership of the DCAO for Public Safety/Director of Homeland Security, forming the Office of Homeland Security. The legislation and resulting changes to the Charter, spelled out the separate and distinct missions assigned to EM and PSC.

Mission Statement:

The Office of Homeland Security's mission is to protect lives, preserve property, and enhance community well-being by delivering preparedness training, responsive emergency communications, supporting public safety services, and promoting safe and healthy neighborhoods through effective code compliance operations, integrated technology, emergency call-taking, and dispatch. 

Vision Statement:

To ensure Prince George's County is safe, well-maintained, and prepared for emergencies through reliable communications and effective code compliance that protect community quality of life. 

Values Statement:

OHS will S.E.R.V.E. Prince George's County through:

  • S - Service: Committing to the needs of our community, providing compassionate and professional support in every interaction. 
  • E - Elevated Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in emergency management, 9-1-1 communications, and code compliance. 
  • R - Responsiveness: Delivering timely, accurate, and coordinated actions when the public and first responders need us most. 
  • V - Vigilance: Proactively safeguarding lives, property, and neighborhoods through preparedness and education around community standards. 
  • E - Elevated Equity: Ensuring fair, consistent, and respectful treatment for all residents and stakeholders.