Last time, I discussed the [link url=”http://edmdigest.com/response/back-to-the-basics-initial-ic/” title=”initial incident commander (IC)”]. One of the largest tasks that the IC must complete at a disaster is to determine the size and scope of the disaster. After completing this task, the IC can hen summon the correct resources and build an organizational structure that will be able to complete the tasks to mitigate the incident.
Planned Events
For a hurricane, snowstorm, or other planned event that has some predictability, knowing how and where to obtain the latest data will give the IC a good head start on determining the extent of the problem.
For a hurricane, the hurricane wind category, in addition to the storm surge, should provide a prediction on the amount and location of the damage. If the event is flooding, typographical maps should be consulted to determine the location and extent of the damage, impassable roads, etc.
No-Notice Events
No-notice events provide more difficulty in determining the location and extent of damage. However, we can use some tools to help us predict the problems we will encounter.
For example, if a tornado comes through an industrial area, we can predict hazardous materials releases. If a tornado goes through a residential area with a school in the day or night, problems are predictable; during the day, we should focus on the school, as night the school may only be inhabited by the janitor. We also know with some predictability the trajectory of the tornado. In the Cincinnati area, the winds come from the southwest and head towards the northeast. This has also been the trajectory of the damage for many of the tornados.
It’s not always an exact science, but is a starting point, at least.
Whether planned or no-notice, ensuring access to tools that have been updated through the preparedness efforts can bring advantages. This will allow for quick understanding of the potential complexity of the event.
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