Much has been said about the benefits of emergency notification for ensuring public safety. As Rick and I attend the Fire Rescue International Show in Chicago, however, it occurs to us how little has been said about the benefits of emergency notification for first responder safety. Here are a few thoughts on how ENS provides for a safer responder environment:
Reduced panic.
At times, we hear concerns from emergency managers that mass calling will incite panic among citizens making the situation worse while placing first responders in even greater danger. Though one can imagine certain limited scenarios where this might be the case, empirical research and years of practical system usage by agencies across the country do not support this fear. Instead, clear information provides some measure of comfort to citizens, reducing panic and irrational behavior while creating a safer environment for responders.
Reduced threats.
Danger criminal behavior may occur both during and after critical events such as a disaster. One of the interesting findings post-Katrina was looting and rioting (perhaps more limited in frequency than portrayed in the media) occurred with more frequency several days into the crisis; a key driving factor behind the behavior was uncertainty and a lack of communication on when conditions would change. While analogies aren't perfect here as notification systems did not have power or infrastructure to work immediately after this disaster, the principal nevertheless remains. Poor or no information can lead to erratic and dangerous citizen behavior placing first responders in greater harm.
Appropriate public response.
A study on the San Diego wildfires of 2007 (covered previously in our blog) examined the impact of emergency notification on citizen behavior. A key finding emerged: people who received an alert were more likely to follow evacuation instructions than those who did not. Citizens following these types of instructions create a safer environment for responders, particularly in diminishing problems with access and egress.
Intelligence & situational awareness.
A final way emergency notification technology provides safety for first responders is in the knowledge gained from citizens as a result of an alert. Many examples exist of responder agencies issuing alerts and citizens calling back to identify the whereabouts of a criminal or provide other useful information. As knowledge is power, such intelligence allows for a better prepared response and a less risky operation (at least to some degree).
While ENS is clearly a significant tool for protecting local citizens, it is also a tool for protecting the protectors. With an effective notification program, everyone wins.
Best regards,
Lorin
Galain Solutions, Inc. helps public safety agencies develop effective emergency notification programs. For more information, email: info@galainsolutions.com.
Latest Blog Posts 
Does social media monitoring belong in Planning or PIO?May 20 Opinions differ even among those who know how important it is…
Latest Emergency Management News
Oklahoma’s Emergency Chief Has Weathered 36 Disasters
Experts in emergency management say Albert Ashwood’s long experience and innovative thinking have helped ease those recoveries.
Experts in emergency management say Albert Ashwood’s long experience and innovative thinking have helped ease those recoveries.
Amid Disaster, Oklahoma Students Design Tornado Drones
Students at the Oklahoma State University Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering designed preliminary storm drones that could someday gather data that saves lives.
Students at the Oklahoma State University Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering designed preliminary storm drones that could someday gather data that saves lives.
Mobile Tech Links Trauma Surgeons with SWAT Teams
The test program equips SWAT officers with computers and cameras so when out in the field, trauma surgeons can help them respond to critical injuries.
The test program equips SWAT officers with computers and cameras so when out in the field, trauma surgeons can help them respond to critical injuries.
- Most Popular
-
- Long-Term Recovery Planning: What You Need to Know
- What You Should Know About Emergency Management Degrees
- Major Earthquake Scenario Tests California’s Response Capabilities
- Emergency Managers Prepare for a Changing Disaster Paradigm
- C-CERTs Allow Colleges to Take Quick Action During an Emergency
- 2013 Emergency Management Summits
- Most Commented
-
-
Does social media monitoring belong in Planning or PIO?
"My recommendation would be to retain Social Media monitoring (IBSM) in the PIO function; as a headed" -
Emergency Managers Prepare for a Changing Disaster Paradigm
"An excellent article; it clearly presents the situation (acknowledging Rob's comment). ... I see a/t" -
2013 Homeland Security Grants Preview
"Ben, watch for the 2013 grants and find out who applies for them in your county/region. You need to" -
L.A. Prepares the Next Generation of Emergency Managers Through Internships
"wow nice and good share" -
Tornado 'Safe Room' Plans
"Pete, I remember being in the basement as a young boy in the early evenings when there were tornadoe"
-
Does social media monitoring belong in Planning or PIO?
Latest Grants
- Funding Critical Projects Requires Creativity, Collaboration
- Hinds County, Miss., Imposes Surcharge on 911 Calls via Internet-Based Phones
- Cities Implement First Responders’ Fee for Nonresidents to Fill Budget Gaps
- How Much Homeland Security Federal Funding Should New York City Receive?
- Higher Education Grants to Fund All-Hazards Planning for Institutions
