By Randall Hanifen
Contributor, EDM Digest
Note: This is the second of a two-part series. Read Part One here.
In my last blog, I discussed the need for a logistics operation by thinking of the basic needs of first responders, such as food and restrooms.
Once you recognize that you will be working more than two operational periods, you need to determine a larger and more comprehensive logistics operation to support that disaster incident. As anyone who has participated in more than one disaster relief effort knows, progress occurs only as rapidly as the logistics.
Look for Accessible Facilities and Resources to Tap
Wildfire crews have an extensive base camp operation that is easily assembled because of its frequent use. However, what do you do if you are not one of these well-oiled logistics systems? You begin by looking around at the facilities to which you already have access and the resources you can tap for assistance.
Government buildings are one accessible resource. Fire stations have bays and living areas that can be converted into a makeshift base camp. This base camp can be used until a more permanent one can be set up and paid for with disaster declaration funds.
Obtaining some cots to place in apparatus bays at fire stations permits 50 first responders or more to sleep, use the restroom and have a place to eat. One of the items to plan for is getting cots, which can be supplied by the Red Cross.
Acquiring Support Facilities Beyond Fire Stations
As you grow beyond government facilities and build a base camp, think of the location, size and the long-term path of the disaster. You may need a base camp, volunteer donation collection centers and evacuee areas. So plan early, because some areas might accommodate these facilities better than others.
For example, a volunteer donation center would not work well within the disaster area. However, a base camp should not be set up 50 miles from the disaster site unless absolutely necessary.
Plan and exercise the expanded logistics before the need arises. Also, for guidance and possible assistance, befriend military and private industry leaders whose daily duties include complex logistics.