Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
used by the special events teams (radio, cellular phones, computers), they should all
be provided by the agencies and not utilize personnel equipment.
Common terminology should be utilized as much as possible, and use of slang
or inaccurate description of events or locations should be discouraged. “Ten codes”
have been replaced by common language in most NIMS planning. It helps to
deliver a clear, succinct message summarizing the events that are occurring or what
the operations groups are to accomplish. Using these communication checkmarks
helps to create a professional atmosphere for all involved.
Paperwork
IAPs are the cornerstone document upon which operations at a special event should
be based. IAPs are a singular document that collect basic information on the details
of the event. During the planning sessions, the sections of an IAP should be com-
pleted by the appropriate responsible agencies. This information should then be
sent back to a single group to compile and produce a single workable document.
After an initial draft is prepared for an IAP, the planners should carefully review
the document and consider any changes. The nature of some IAPs cause them to be
open documents until nearly the beginning of the event. Some of the information
included on the IAPs that may be late additions are as follows: changing itinerar-
ies of VIPs for the special event, weather conditions, personnel assigned to various
roles, as well as other issues as dictated by the event.
Some information is a bit static that is contained within an IAP. Information
such as street closings, radio frequencies, access/egress points, mass casualty collection
points, or prestaged resources such as first-aid tents may be planned well in advance. As
is clearly evident, some of this information comprises last-minute additions, whereas
others are in place significantly in advance of the actual special event.
The IAP should also contain emergency plans for both special event operators
and outside personnel responding to the event. This includes preplanned staging
areas or rally points should groups be split or become threatened because of a change
in the venue status. These may occur if peaceful protests turn into a more moblike
behavior. It also may help if inclement weather appears and disrupts the attendees
such as if they were outside and a rush occurs for people to get out of the weather.
Having this information readily available, instead of informing after the event, helps
responders to move into a response/recovery phase much quicker for all involved.
Other paperwork may be needed beyond the IAP for an event. An IAP only
functions as a summary of information. Numerous other documents may be pre-
pared before an event. Attending a FEMA incident command course that contains
ICS 100, 200, 300, and 400 may be of particular benefit for managers and plan-
ners. Additionally, as resources are available, operators should be minimally trained
in ICS 100 and 200, but preferably trained in ICS 300 and 400 as well. This helps
all involved understand the documents that they are seeing.
