ONEMI is an abbreviation for the National Emergency Office of Chile (Oficina Nacional de Emergencia). It is a government agency responsible for the coordination, prevention, and response to emergencies and disasters that occur within the country's territory. ONEMI's main objective is to safeguard the lives, integrity, and goods of citizens during emergency situations.
The agency, established in 1974, operates under the Ministry of the Interior and Public Security. ONEMI works closely with different institutions, including the armed forces, public services, local governments, and NGOs, to ensure a comprehensive and effective response to emergencies.
ONEMI operates through a hierarchical structure, with its headquarters in the capital, Santiago, and regional offices across the country. It monitors and assesses risks, prepares emergency plans, and coordinates resources and response teams in the event of disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, floods, wildfires, or hazardous material incidents.
Additionally, ONEMI provides information and education campaigns to raise awareness and preparedness levels among the population, promoting a culture of prevention in order to reduce the impact of emergencies and avoid loss of life.
In summary, ONEMI is the National Emergency Office in Chile responsible for the organization, management, and coordination of emergency operations, as well as implementing preventive measures to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of the population.
