Emergencies outside business hours (8:00 - 4:30) M - F, please contact the Sheriff's Department at (715) 748-2200.

Daniel Gellert, Director

224 S 2nd St, Medford, WI 54451    |    (P) 715.748.3503    |    (M) 715.965.0100
Email Emergency Management

How do I arrange to get my Weather Radio programmed?
  • We can help program your weather radio. It takes about 10-15 minutes to program. Please contact your Emergency Management Office at 715-748-3503
Why do the outdoor warning sirens go off when the weather is not bad?
  • Taylor County outdoor warning sirens are set off remotely mainly from the communications center in Medford. Some areas have the ability to set off their own community sirens.
  • Testing the outdoor warning sirens is a preparedness step to ensure that they are functioning correctly.
How do I arrange to get my Weather Radio programmed?When are the outdoor warnings sirens get tested?
  • Taylor County Communications Center sets off the outdoor warning sirens monthly which happens the 1st Wednesday of the month at Noon. They will normally sound for 1-2 minutes before turning off.
  • If bad weather is expected during the test day the test will be cancelled due to expected weather.
  • Some Communities test daily, and some areas use the sirens for Fire Department calls.
Who should I contact if an outdoor warning siren is not working?
  • Contact your local city, village, and or township clerks.
  • Taylor County does not own or maintain the outdoor warning sirens.
What does Emergency Management do?
  • Emergency Management coordinates planning, response, and recovery efforts for disasters and emergencies. We work with local agencies, first responders, nonprofits, and community organizations to keep our community safe.
What kinds of emergencies do you plan for?
  • We prepare for a wide range of hazards, including natural disasters (like floods, tornados, wildfires), technological hazards (like chemical spills or power outages), Human-caused threats (terrorism, active shooter incidents) and public health emergencies.
Where do I go during an evacuation?
  • Follow official instructions. We’ll provide information on shelters or evacuation centers through our alert system, website, and local news.
Are pets allowed at shelters?
  • Some emergency shelters are pet-friendly. We’ll announce which shelters accept pets during an event. Make sure to bring pet supplies.
What’s the difference between evacuation orders and shelter-in-place?
  • Evacuation Order: You must leave the area for your safety.
  • Shelter-in-Place: Stay where you are (indoors), close windows and doors, and wait for further instructions.
How does Emergency Management support people with disabilities or access and functional needs?
  • We work with partner agencies to provide accessible alerts, transportation assistance, shelter accommodations, and other resources. Let us know your needs in advance through our voluntary registry (if available).
What happens after an emergency?
  • Emergency Management helps coordinate recovery efforts like damage assessments, assistance programs, and connecting residents to resources like FEMA, Red Cross, or local aid.
How can I help during an emergency?
  • Donate to trusted organizations.
  • Stay informed and prepared so emergency services can focus on those in greatest need.
How can I volunteer during a disaster?
  • Join the Taylor County Medical Reserve Corps or your local volunteer network. Trained volunteers are crucial for response and recovery. More information about the Taylor County Medical Reserve Corps can be found on our webpage.
What is the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)?
  • The MRC is a network of medical and non-medical volunteers who assist during public health emergencies, disasters, and community events.
How can businesses prepare for emergencies?
  • Create a business continuity plan.
  • Train staff on emergency procedures.
  • Maintain emergency kits and backup systems.
  • Register with local emergency management to receive updates and guidance.