The Emergency Management and Disaster Risk Management divisions were merged in 2016 into the Emergency and Disaster Risk Management Division (EDRM) to create a synergy and better coordination of the two interlinked functions. EDRM is mandated, under the Local Authority Fire Brigade Act as well as the National Disaster Risk Act, to provide services that include fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency medical services, heavy rescue, water rescue, hazardous material response, community awareness safety education and training in an effort to enhance the safety and quality of life for the people in Windhoek. Moreover, the Disaster Risk arm concentrates on research, planning, early warning, monitoring and coordination of disaster incidents within the city.