By Marian Long PE, Gradient Planning LLC
The emergency management community has a saying, “During a disaster is not the time to exchange business cards”. The establishment and continued re-strengthening of relationships is critical to effective emergency response. Working in isolation is only successful for small, on-site incidents when no outside help is needed.
Have you identified the partners that you will need to collaborate with for effective emergency response?
Do you have contact data for a reliable 24/7 response?
Are the partners familiar with your utility operations, lay out, and hazardous materials, as appropriate?
Have you had joint training exercises that were conducted in accordance with Department of Homeland Security guidelines, as appropriate?
Emergency Preparedness Partners that are Critical for Success
When planning for the different incidents that could impact life, property, and operational continuity, each utility has to think through the partners that they will need to work with for an effective response. While every facility is different, and has to develop plans specific to their needs, the following are different categories of partners that have historically proven to be valuable to utilities in their moment of need.
First Responders – Everyone knows to call 911, but it is important to invite your local fire department to come and visit your facility to become familiar with it before an incident occurs. It is also critical to invite in law enforcement to provide guidance on how to respond to active shooter or other security-related events.
Local Emergency Management Directors/Local Emergency Planning (LEPC) Committees – While communities differ with regard to exact administrative structure, it is valuable to establish a solid working relationship with your EMA Director. And, join and support your LEPC.
State and Federal Agencies – While exact names vary, every state has agencies with oversight of drinking water and wastewater. It is critical to know the exact number to use during/immediately after an incident on a 24/7 basis.
Other Water Utilities / WARN – Mutual aid within the sector can be critical during an event. It’s important to consider the benefits of joining the WARN. If you choose not to, establish relationships with other utilities to provide mutual aid when needed.
Critical Vendors – Based on the incidents that could occur at your utility, relationships should be established with key vendors. Examples include your electrical utility, your diesel fuel provider for emergency generators, and your critical chemicals supplier.
Critical Customers – If there are customers that would be severely impacted by an incident at your utility, it is most important that you know who they are. A list of critical customers should be established and maintained. And, preplan with them to minimize consequences and potential for negative press.
As you read about/watch coverage of the recent terrorist events, it is clear how important it is to have a seamless response with all parties in sync. Imagine what the consequences would be if critical partners were unknown or untested at the time they are needed most. Invest in your future and work together.
No comments yet.