“The difference between a challenge and a disaster is planning!

     I recently heard this quote. I am uncertain who it came from so I will list it as an unknown source. I would like to use it as this month’s training drill. In emergency services we are faced with a multitude of “challenges”. Here is a list from my department past 24 months. Vehicle Extrication/Rescue, Structure fires, Grassland/Field fires, Medical Assists, Large Commercial Structure Fires, Gas leaks, Chemical Spills, Downed Powerlines, etc. We never know what or when the challenge may be. We must, however, always be prepared for whatever the challenge may be. Doing so can be accomplished in a few easy steps.

     Step One, Anticipate the challenges. Of course, we pray that we are not called upon, but we must always be ready. Look around your community. Develop a list of potential incidents that may occur. Think of the worst-case scenarios. Assign a team from your department to take ownership of this.

     Step Two, develop an action plan for each one of these scenarios. Utilize a standard response “pre-plan” document and begin to build an emergency operating procedures guide.

     Step Three, develop a training schedule to ensure your department is trained to respond to meet these challenges. This may require the utilization of outside resources to fulfil.

     Step Four, develop tabletop exercises to ensure your plan is tested prior to application in an emergency. The tabletop exercise allows you to experience the “disaster” without consequences of the mistakes made in the exercise.

     Once you have completed this project, be certain to revisit it regularly to ensure it is up to date.

Training Objectives

     Upon completion, the department should be able to….

     • Identify emergency challenges in your area.

     • Develop an action plan for each of the identified challenges.

     • Develop a training schedule based on the department needs to meet the identified challenges.

     • Develop tabletop exercises to test the plans and training developed.

     Scott Meinecke is a member of the Sheldon and Granger Volunteer Fire Departments, Director of Safety for the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives, and field staff for the Fire Service Training Bureau. He can be contacted by email at smeinecke@iowarec.org

 

 

 

 

Blaze Publications, Inc.

Jeff Gargano - Editor
P.O. Box 122
Humboldt, IA 50548
jeff@blazepublicationsinc.com

News and Advertising: News and advertising deadlines are the 15th of each month for the next month's issue.

 

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