The onset of another hurricane season is a stark reminder of nature's unpredictable fury. Standing between the public and the chaos are our steadfast public safety agencies. From law enforcement, firefighters and dispatchers to emergency medical services, these dedicated professionals play an invaluable role in community disaster management. Let's explore how these agencies' year-round efforts in preparing for and responding to natural disasters—particularly hurricanes—benefit all of our communities.

If 2020 has taught us one thing, it’s that the future is unpredictable. Public safety agencies have always operated amid uncertainty. COVID-19, however, is placing an unprecedented strain on resources, both by necessitating additional expenditures and interrupting revenue streams. This creates an unprecedented challenge as organizations try to anticipate their needs and plan for the coming year.

Now is the time for agencies to monitor where their budgets have been so they can better plan where they'll be going. Using technology, such as data-driven analytics that provide actionable insights, can be incredibly valuable. Whether the data revolves around the cost for personnel, equipment or responding to COVID-19 calls, looking backward can provide justifications when looking forward. As we're approaching 2021, let's take a look at some of the strategies public safety agencies are using to plan for next year's budgets.