Natural disasters and technical-technological accidents are becoming more common in every society. As a result of climate change and greater exploitation of the environment, there is a risk in every country, regardless of the level of development. Natural disasters cannot be prevented in many ways, some can not even be predicted (earthquake), but the consequences can be mitigated by adequate preventive measures, as well as timely response of the competent services. By adopting the first systemic law regulating the field of emergency situations and establishing an integrated protection and rescue system, the Republic of Serbia has defined the basic goals - protection of human lives, material and cultural goods, environment, and no less important social stability. Emergency headquarters have been appointed as the governing bodies in charge of implementing this goal in the conditions of an emergency situation, or immediately before its occurrence. The hypothetical framework of the work is reflected in the organizational level, preparations as the content of the organization, the parameters of the structure and the organizational performances of the emergency headquarters. The aim of this work is to identify, systematize and explain the basic features of the organization and functioning of emergency headquarters in the Republic of Serbia and consider opportunities for their improvement.