Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
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Have all JIC personnel been trained in the policies and procedures
for coordinating the preparation and release of emergency public
information?
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Has the JIS been tested and exercised? Have lessons learned been
incorporated into the Emergency Public Information Annex?
Test, Train, and Exercise
Finally, develop a progressive test, training, and exercise program to evaluate every
aspect of a potential terrorism response. Begin with orientations that describe the
changes required for a terrorism response. Then, proceed to tabletop exercises,
functional exercises, and full-scale exercises.
Evaluate tests and exercises honestly, carefully, and thoroughly. Lessons learned
from testing and exercises may point to additional EOP revisions or additional
training needs. When evaluating tests and exercises, stay focused on the jurisdic-
tion's goal, which is to improve incident response to a terrorism incident, includ-
ing improved support offered through the EOC and the hierarchy of multiagency
coordination entities.
Summary
Preparing your jurisdiction's EOC for a terrorism response may seem like a daunt-
ing task, but by building on the systems and procedures that are already in place
and testing, training, and exercising the jurisdiction's plan, you can ensure an effec-
tive response.
Remember that resources are available to help you with your planning.
Contact your State Training Officer for a complete schedule of course offerings.
Other courses are offered numerous resources are available to you through the
Department of Homeland Security training partners, including the Emergency
Management Institute (EMI) to enhance U.S. emergency management practices
through a nationwide program of instruction.
