Although EMS training and day-to-day activities will cross over into disaster response, sound planning can ensure familiar tasks don’t get overlooked in the chaos of a natural disaster. IBTS spoke with Ken Parker, retired city manager of Port Orange, Florida, about his experience assisting his local EMS with natural disaster planning efforts. Take a wide… Read more
Although EMS professionals deal with injury and death on a daily-basis, many are caught off-guard by the emotional and physical intensity of responding to natural disasters. Below, retired City Manager of Port Orange, Florida, Ken Parker provides his advice to EMS workers based on his years of experience working alongside EMS professionals to navigate… Read more
This document describes baseline and additional EMS criteria for the National Emergency Response Credentialing System. It provides job descriptions and specific NIMS and ICS course training requirements for 16 specialized EMS positions, including: Advanced Emergency Medical Technician Air Medical Transport Manager or Administrator Air Medical Transport Mechanic Air Medical Transport Paramedic Air Medical Transport Physician Air… Read more
Urban localities areas face unique challenges challenges when it comes to communications; they must manage a high volume of messaging and public input across a broad scope of communications channels before, during and after disasters. IBTS spoke with Vito Turso, New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) deputy commissioner, about his department’s experience communicating with… Read more
Cell, internet and landline service are not a given in the aftermath of a natural disaster, and unprepared communities can be thrown into disarray if communications are cut off even for a brief period. Amateur radio operator organizations and operators exist in nearly every community across the country; have a plan in place to… Read more
FEMA’s online independent study course, “Exercise Evaluation and Improvement Planning,” covers the methodology for completing after action reports. IS-130 Exercise Evaluation and Improvement Planning
The following FEMA courses help highlight the importance of voluntary agencies before, during and after emergencies. They can help strengthen the ability of communities to prepare for and manage the volunteers who are so often critical to recovery. These courses are most useful for emergency managers and related professionals who work with volunteers, members of… Read more
These FEMA online independent study courses are designed to help localities establish a partnership, communication, and resource sharing in vendor contracts and public-private partnerships. They provide education that helps communities have a plan in place before a disaster strikes. These courses are geared toward community planners, emergency management personnel, and anyone else in either the… Read more
Although localities typically have sound plans in place to meet immediate post-disaster recovery needs, many overlook long-term recovery needs — how will your community survive and thrive five, ten, twenty years after a disaster? These tips provide insight into what localities should consider while developing a basic long-term recovery plan and strategy. Engage a… Read more
Providing temporary infrastructure to citizens is not only critical for a successful disaster response, but it builds morale and demonstrates a first step towards recovery. FEMA currently offers twelve online independent study courses focused on key elements of temporary infrastructure – transportation, energy, public works and health care. IS-552 — The Public Works Role… Read more
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