Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
for transferring calls, fax numbers, printer addresses, and other information that
supports operations. Similarly, instructions for use can be posted by copiers, fax
machines, and so forth. Remember that staff using the EOC will be under pressure
and may be seeing the EOC equipment for the first time. Botterell's First Law of
Emergency Management cautions that “stress makes you stupid.”
Organizing for EOC Management
Something that is everyone's responsibility is in reality no one's responsibility. An
important first step in developing a plan for EOC management is to identify who
will be responsible for overall planning and who will serve as the EOC coordinator
during activation. These two positions do not necessarily need to be held by the
same person.
Planning for EOC management is no different from planning for operations.
One begins by identifying key players and stakeholders, and developing a work-
ing group to guide the work. As EOC systems and procedures are developed,
they should be tested through exercise, preferably by being integrated into regular
EOC functional exercises. Although this seems obvious, relatively little planning
is traditionally done in the area of EOC management; most organizations focus
all their efforts on operations planning. This is the equivalent of assuming that
normal departmental functions will be available during a disaster in the absence
of a continuity of operations plan. It is a very risky assumption that could result in
operational failure.
The following are key points to consider when planning for EOC management:
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Identify a lead person with overall responsibility for EOC management
planning.
◾
Identify key players and stakeholders, and form a working group.
◾
Develop standard operating procedures for common EOC functions.
◾
Develop standby contracts for increased or additional services.
◾
Coordinate supporting operations such as security and support services.
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During activation, consider forming an EOC support team under a single
coordinator.
◾
Use a standard deactivation process that prepares the EOC for immediate
reactivation before concluding operations.
Good EOC management can significantly reduce confusion and stress on the EOC
team, allowing the team to focus on operations rather than being distracted by
their operational environment. It requires preplanning in a manner similar to oper-
ations and an ability to forecast the needs of the EOC team. In the end, it may well
determine the success or failure of the EOC operation.
