Latest news with #IncidentCommandSystem
07-07-2025
- General
Texas flash flooding disaster raises questions about rescue and recovery efforts
The catastrophic flash floods in Texas have left communities reeling, claiming at least 90 lives and displacing families across the Hill Country. As recovery operations continue, safety concerns have intensified -- not just for the current disaster but for how future flash flood events will be managed. Officials say the tragedy has spotlighted confusion surrounding how disasters are categorized and managed, particularly around terms like response, rescue and recovery. Understanding these distinctions is essential to grasping how emergency teams work during such events. How disaster response is organized In the U.S., large-scale disaster management follows a tiered structure called the Incident Command System (ICS). This well-established framework is designed to ensure consistent coordination during crises, whether it's a terrorist attack like 9/11, a major hurricane like Katrina, or the devastating floods currently hitting Texas. Under ICS, the response is managed at local, state and federal levels. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott emphasized that all three tiers are currently active in the flood response, with resources being shared across jurisdictions. The terminology used under ICS is standardized, helping ensure that all agencies involved are aligned in their actions and goals. As of this week, Abbott extended the state's disaster declaration to cover 15 counties, while President Donald Trump approved a federal disaster declaration for Kerr County, one of the hardest-hit areas. Response vs. Rescue vs. Recovery Disaster operations follow a general pattern: response, then rescue, then recovery. The Response Phase begins when the ICS is activated. This involves setting up an Emergency Operations Center and appointing an incident commander to coordinate efforts across all agencies. The Rescue Phase prioritizes saving lives. In an event like the Texas floods, it would typically include: Land-based search teams using GPS grid searches. K9 search-and-rescue dogs. Boat and helicopter rescues carried out by the U.S. Coast Guard and Texas National Guard. A U.S. military "Reaper" drone providing aerial surveillance to guide rescue teams. Importantly, the safety of responders is a top priority -- ensuring they don't become additional victims. A family reunification process is also underway to help reconnect loved ones affected by the flooding. Eventually, operations will shift to the Recovery Phase, which focuses on finding those still missing and restoring the devastated infrastructure. Abbott said that this transition in Texas will not happen until all missing people are accounted for. For comparison, after 9/11, the shift from rescue to recovery at Ground Zero occurred around 24 to 48 hours post-impact. Investigations and mental health support Due to the tragic loss of life, evidence recovery is now part of the process. Investigators may need to conduct forensic or criminal inquests to determine the cause of deaths and evaluate any liability. Mental health support teams are already in place. The trauma of such a disaster affects victims, families and even the rescuers. Crisis counselors, FBI and state victim support specialists and grief support services should be available and will be a key part of the long-term response. The long road ahead Recovery will include debris removal, damage assessments and rebuilding efforts -- a difficult road that will require extensive state and federal support. Meanwhile, officials are urging all Texans to be vigilant and prepared for future weather emergencies. What to do in a flash flood If you're in a flood-prone area, here are key safety tips: Always be weather aware and monitor alerts. Leave early if conditions deteriorate. Have an emergency kit and communication plan. Seek high ground immediately when flooding is imminent. Several resources can help you stay informed: FEMA Mobile App -- Provides real-time alerts and shelter information. Weather alert apps -- Multiple are available for download and can offer advanced warnings. For all types of disasters, meteorologists say that it's important to have at least two ways of receiving important weather alerts. Your phone should have the Emergency Alert System activated, but you'll also need a NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) weather radio because it does not require cell service or electricity to operate. "I really believe every person in the country should have a NOAA weather radio," ABC News Chief Meteorologist Ginger Zee said. "This is battery powered and will wake you from a dead sleep. The timely warnings from NWS that night can be programmed to go off and would wake folks and give them at least a few minutes, if not longer, to seek higher ground." How you can help The American Red Cross is one of several organizations assisting with victim support, shelter and supplies. Donald J. Mihalek is an ABC News contributor, retired senior Secret Service who served on the president's detail and as an NSSE coordinator for UNGA contingency operations. He was also a police officer and served in the U.S. Coast Guard helping coordinate search and rescue operations. Richard Frankel is an ABC News contributor and retired FBI special agent who was the special agent in charge of the FBI's Newark Division and, prior to that, the FBI's New York Joint Terrorism TASK force. He was involved in the investigation and recovery efforts of TWA Flight 800, the 9/11 attacks and the 2013 Westgate Mall attack in Kenya.
Time Business News
16-06-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Security Services California Handle Emergency Protocols
Unforeseen crises like fireouts, natural calamities, or security alerts require fast, systematic reactions. For many businesses, residential complexes, and public institutions in California, it is not a matter of choice to outsource these important tasks to trained professionals. The process of emergency evacuation should be quick, secure, and practiced to avoid injuries and pandemonium. The reaction of trained people in a pressurized situation can give confidence to the clients who have engaged Security Services California. Structured evacuations save lives and property. Information about how security personnel are trained and their collaboration with the emergency services may allow you to make better-informed decisions about protection schemes. Emergency protocols begin long before an actual threat occurs. Security teams conduct elaborate testing to test the fire exits, possible bottlenecks, crowd control areas, and vulnerable persons. These observations are the foundation of tailor-made evacuation plans, which are in accordance with local and federal safety codes. At Security Services California, planning is not undertaken once. It is a continuous process that is updated when there is a structural change, a report on an incident, or a policy change. Aligning with the building management and frequent interaction with the local emergency services are of considerable importance when devising a foolproof system design. The best protocol can be as expensive as the individuals using it. In their regular training sessions, security teams prepare to act in various situations: earthquakes, active shooter situations, bomb threats, or hazardous material releases. These classes are not just theoretical; an important part of them is practical skills, like finding the exits in the shortest possible time, communicating while being restrained, and assisting people at risk of evacuation. The drills comprise the essence of Security Services California's dependability. They replicate real-life emergencies and enable the personnel to determine vulnerable areas in their response times or procedures. The residents, employees, or tenants usually take part, and they become familiar with emergency procedures, eliminating panic in case of a real incident. Evacuations demand instant decisions. Security professionals communicate via radios, mobile applications, and internal systems, which keep them updated in real time. These channels enable communication not only amongst guards but also amongst fire departments, police, and emergency medical services. Most of the groups in Security Services California have been taught emergency communications standards, such as the Incident Command System (ICS), which unifies language and chain of command during emergencies. This eradicates any confusion that may occur in multi-agency responses and provides faster resolutions. During emergencies, large groups may panic. Special crowd control techniques are needed to contain the chaos and move people towards safe exits. Teams are trained to remain calm by using direct verbal orders, visual cues, and body placement. They also learn to identify and provide additional support to the people who might need it: children, older adults, or people with physical or mental disabilities. The Security Services California professionals will wear emergency vests, glow batons, and portable megaphones to enhance visibility and communication during evacuations. Where building occupants speak different languages, multilingual staff or universally understandable signage can ensure that everyone gets the same clear direction. Security firms don't operate in isolation. Good relations with fire marshals, paramedics, and police departments can secure a better and quicker response. When an evacuation alert is activated, the relevant authorities are contacted straight away. Security officers can play the role of the emergency responders' eyes and ears prior to their arrival on the scene. When examining reputable security services companies in California, they often conduct joint training exercises with city services. This approach enables all parties to become familiar with each other's systems and expectations. Such collaboration minimizes response time and prevents procedural contradictions in situations that depend on timely action. Alarms and exits are not the only elements of safety during emergencies. Safety is about preparation, coordination, and adaptability. The specialists who manage these procedures are not merely prepared for the unlikely—they are the key to reducing its effects. Residents and business entities who engage skilled Security Services California teams embrace order, reinforcement, and tranquility. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Henderson appoints LVMPD deputy chief as new police chief
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Henderson's city manager announced the appointment of Reggie Rader, a deputy chief with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, as its new chief of police at a news conference Wednesday. The city manager, Stephanie Garcia-Vause, fired Rader's predecessor, Hollie Chadwick, in March. In an exclusive interview with the 8 News Now Investigators, Chadwick – who is now running against the incumbent Michelle Romero in the 2026 mayoral election – insists that Romero pushed her out of the city's top law enforcement position after less than two years. Ex-Henderson police chief blames mayor for abrupt dismissal, announces bid to run against her Rader was appointed as police chief after a relatively brief search. In April, Garcia-Vause announced she would complete the search for a new chief by summertime. 'We conducted an extensive and deliberate search to find the right leader to guide our police department into its next chapter,' Garcia-Vause said. 'Reggie brings a notable combination of professional excellence, deep community roots, and a long-term vision for Henderson's public safety. We're confident in his ability to bring our policing services to the next level.' Rader has nearly 30 years of experience in public safety and community policing across Southern Nevada. He started as a volunteer explorer with LVMPD and then rose through the ranks to his current role as LVMPD deputy chief of the Homeland Security Division. As deputy chief of the Homeland Security Division, he leads more than 400 sworn and civilian personnel and oversees critical areas, including the Office of Community Engagement, the Homeless Outreach Team, the Southern Nevada Counter Terrorism Center, crime analytics, event planning, and more. Throughout his time with LVMPD, Rader also served as deputy chief of the East Patrol Services Division, captain of the Organizational Development Bureau, captain of the Southeast Area Command and detective, sergeant, and lieutenant of the gang unit and other specialized units. In 2016 Rader was awarded the highest law enforcement honor, The Medal of Valor. Rader was a long-time member of the LVMPD Honor Guard, recognized with several Exemplary Service Awards and was instrumental in establishing the Incident Command System following the 1 October mass shooting. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia Southern University and is a graduate of both the FBI National Academy and the Senior Management Institute for Police. Rader is a proud Green Valley High School graduate and a longtime Henderson resident. 'I'm honored to serve the City where I grew up,' Rader said. 'This department is filled with dedicated professionals who care deeply about their work and the community. My goal is to support them fully, lead with transparency, and ensure we set next-level standards in policing. I look forward to collaborating with our officers, union leadership, City leadership, and the community.' Rader is expected to begin Monday, July 7 and an Oath of Office ceremony is set to take place during a special Henderson City Council meeting on July 15. Henderson begins hiring process for new police chief; decision expected by summer Chadwick's immediate replacement, acting Chief Itzhak Henn, announced his retirement four weeks ago. The city, in a written statement, told the 8 News Now Investigators that it anticipated Henn's retirement. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Brian Payne named Emergency Manager of the Year
A member of the Scott County Emergency Management Commission has been recognized for his work by being named as the Emergency Manager of the Year. Brian Payne, Scott County Emergency Management Director, has been honored by the Iowa Emergency Management Association with the award. Payne was nominated for this award by several of his peers, saying 'Brian Payne is working to make our state and our industry better as a whole…he is always offering to help others, offering guidance and mentorship.' '[Payne] serves his community, while also serving the state by being an information resource center [for] the largest county in Southeast Iowa… Brian's impact as a leader, teacher and mentor to the field of Emergency Management in the State of Iowa will have a long-lasting impact to the next generation of coordinators.' Scott County Emergency Management has made major improvements in the continued development and evolution of emergency management services in the area under Payne's direction. His planning and innovation have led to establishing and strengthening cross-sector relationships, developing an Incident Command System training regime for local first responders and creating graphic information systems (GIS) based tools to provide situational awareness. 'I am honored to be recognized for such a distinguished award, and it has been a privilege to serve the residents of Scott County,' Payne said. 'This wouldn't have been possible without the support and direction of the Scott County Emergency Management Commission and the staff at Scott County Emergency Management Agency.' Payne started with Scott County Emergency Management in 2017 as a planning specialist. He was named Deputy Director of the Agency in 2019 and appointed Emergency Management Director in 2023. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
28-01-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Brazos County names permanent Emergency Coordinator
Brazos County, Tx (FOX 44) – After serving in an interim capacity for the past four months, Jason Ware has been officially promoted to Emergency Management Coordinator for Brazos County. He had previously been the county's deputy to that position for eight years. Ware has brought extensive experience to the post, having worked activations of the Community Emergency Operations Center (CEOC) including Hurricane Harvey, Winter Storm Uri, and the COVID response. He also has experience with flooding events, tornadoes, gas leaks, fires, and hurricanes. Prior to Emergency Management, Ware served in Law Enforcement and Fire/Rescue. He holds a Master Peace Officer Certification as well as Master Firefighter Certification. In total, Ware has served the citizens of Brazos County for about 25 years. 'Jason has proven himself as a trusted leader in emergency management and response over his many years in Brazos County,' said County Judge Duane Peters. 'He has forged strong working relationships with first responders and emergency managers in this area and across the state, and I'm confident those relationships will work to keep all of Brazos County prepared for the future.' Ware has completed several courses in Emergency Management including the Basic and Advanced Professional Development Series through FEMA, as well as training classes in Disaster Finance/Accounting, Debris Management, Advanced Public Information Officer, and Incident Command System. He now provides some of that training to others as an instructor. Ware is also a member of the Homeland Security Advisory Committee and serves as vice chairperson for the Local Emergency Planning Committee. In addition, Ware is a Reserve Sergeant with the Brazos County Sheriff's Office and recently returned from providing security for presidential inaugural activities in Washington, D.C. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
