With the high cost of creating new technologies and the budget restraints of those who will be using the products, it is critical that developers, policy makers, and end users are all involved in each phase of the development process. A unified approach for developing an adaptable multi-use technology will help to ensure that the purchased technologies do not collect dust on the shelves.
Making plans to avoid a perceived hazard can sometimes create a real hazard when a careful risk assessment is not conducted. Local hazmat and law enforcement experts must be brought in to work with public and private agencies before decisions about sheltering and establishing evacuation routes for those in danger are determined.
Makers and users of anti-terrorism products and services have more to fear than terrorism itself. After certain technologies have changed hands, the sellers and consumers alike may face future liabilities that would halt further production and/or the continuation of services. To guard against that problem, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security offers a unique program that can limit the liability companies may face.
Super Storm Sandy caused major power outages and service interruptions throughout many communities in New Jersey and New York. Thanks in part to the assistance provided by previously established partnerships of the All Hazards Consortium, the public and private sectors were better able to coordinate the services and efforts needed to expedite the recovery process.
You are invited to join more than one million people who will drop, cover, and hold during the Great Central U.S. ShakeOut on 7 February 2013. This regional earthquake drill will include participants across nine states - and they will practice what to do when an actual earthquake occurs.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) aims to enhance preparedness through a "whole community" approach by providing training, products, and resources to a broad range of stakeholders on issues such as active shooter awareness, incident response, and workplace violence.
Violent crime may be decreasing in the United States, but mass killings seem to be on the rise. Although media play a critical role in raising situational awareness, there are associated costs - misinformation, emotionally driven dialogue, and information that not only assists planning for other would-be attackers, but may possibly have a "contagion" effect.
Much has changed in 150 years, but there are some constants - weather, geography, population - that are almost always changing. By understanding local climate conditions, the topography and transportation challenges involved, and the sometimes malicious intent of certain attendees, special event planners can prevent or at least mitigate the effect of dangerous incidents and emergencies.
It is understandable that the end of the Cold War led not only to a relaxation of global tensions but also, to an alarming degree, to a less vigilant attitude about the major, complex, and increasingly dangerous threat posed by Syria, Iran, Libya, and other nations in various areas of the world. Here are some relevant questions already being asked - but not yet answered.
As the "fiscal cliff" approaches, emergency managers must plan for future preparedness efforts - with or without adequate funding. The solution may well be found through collaborative efforts within and between states, resource sharing, and the leadership needed to effectively identify and fill staffing gaps and resource needs.
