Advanced planning is like a fire drill: It teaches you what to do and how to proceed, even in a high stress situation, because you’ve been through the procedure so many time that you know it by heart. – Unknown
A Matter of Readiness
It seems that when planning and preparing to be ready there is always something that each new situation teaches us. The past 48 hours is a good example of this. To many get to the point that they think “oh it that wouldn’t happen here” even some skilled first responder have overlooked some of the basics at times.
- What about that GO-KIT, JUMP-KIT, BUG-OUT Bag is it ready all the time?
- Is the content of your GO-KIT fresh (good batteries, rations ready, how about water)?
- In case the response is a longer than the normal 72 hours, do you have a “little extra?”
- Do you have some gear prestaged in multiple locations (at home, work, workshop, in vehicle, etc.)?
Something else to consider is the location of shelters and safe rooms. When you are out on the road do you know where the nearest shelter is? Hopefully no one will need to rely upon a ditch for cover (even as a last resort).
When possible pre-plan and be situational aware where safe facilities are located in the areas that you are in. With technology that is available that can provide guidance on the potential risk zone days in advance there is no reason for anyone to say “I didn’t know where to find shelter.”
Double check your GO-KIT, JUMP-KIT, BUG-OUT Bag make sure it is indeed Ready To Go the next time the call to Boot Up Be Ready is sounded.
Communications Neglect
How often is criticism given? When we are frequently criticized for the same actions by different people, there’s a good chance the criticism is legitimate and appropriate action should be taken. In emergency management we are often criticized by the media, without them fully understanding our situation. This shows the importance of good relations and communicating one and another’s needs.
For rapid emergency information delivery demands proficiency in collecting, authenticating and disseminating information. The very nature of emergencies means performing in amazingly difficult and demanding conditions. Local emergencies and disasters are distinguished by disruptions in normal operations, impediments within communication systems and problems with transportation systems and routes. In addition the human factor of victims, responders, managers and policy makers who may be astonished, stressed and even terrified or confused.
The highest priority should always be given to meeting the needs of the public, as they are the reason that public safety and emergency management exist. The public demands and is entitled to information that will help them to mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. In order to accomplish this task we need to first gain credibility with the local media. How can we do this? Continue reading