Last year I wrote a blog on who handles different areas of government in direct relation to potential terrorist activity. It is always good to understand what will happen should a crisis occur. Well, in light of the blizzard that just passed by the USA, I thought it was important for me to restate this information. As you know the Department of Homeland Security oversees all types of disasters, like weather-related events. So, if you need to, print out this blog and keep it near your desk or in your wallet. That way, in a time of crisis, you know who is in charge of what and you can better navigate the services you need.
Mayor
The mayor is responsible at the administrative level for the smooth running of the response effort.
Fire service
The fire service is the linchpin in disaster response. The fire chief is charged with the operational management of the response effort. Everything that occurs in the disaster area falls under his/her authority.
Regional accident and disaster medical teams
Anyone injured in a disaster will require medical assistance as soon as possible.
Police
The police will ensure that the fire and ambulance services can do their job. They will cordon off the disaster area, manage the traffic, and sometimes set up a safety zone around the disaster area.
Army
The Ministry of Defence can deploy military personnel to respond to a disaster.
Municipal services
Behind the scenes, several municipal services play an important role in disaster response, especially when it comes to the after-effects.
Other services
Which services take part in the response effort will depend on the type of disaster. In the case of flooding caused by burst dykes or heavy rainfall, the water authorities will play a role. If a disaster occurs off the coast, the Coastguard will be involved. But other services will also often take part. The Red Cross cares for the injured in disasters.
Until tomorrow,
Twyla N. Garrett
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