WHATCOM COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN
March 1, 2017
Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management 311 Grand Avenue Public Safety Building Bellingham, WA 98225
WHATCOM COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN PROMULGATION DOCUMENT March 1, 2017 To: The Citizens of Whatcom County The Chief Elected Officials of all parties to the Interlocal Cooperative Agreement for the Provision of Emergency Management Services All Whatcom County Fire Districts All Whatcom County Departments and Other Organizations with Disaster Mitigation, Preparedness, Response And/or Recovery Responsibilities City of Bellingham From: Jack Louws, Chairperson Whatcom County Emergency Management Council Whatcom County Executive Subject: 2017 Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan The Whatcom County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan is designed to ensure that all jurisdictional members of the Emergency Management Interlocal Agreement have the capability to respond to emergencies and disasters. Pursuant to RCW 38.52 this Plan is intended as a comprehensive framework for countywide disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. It details authorities, functions, and responsibilities to establish a mutually cooperative plan of action between Local, State, Federal; International, Tribal; public; and private sector organizations. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is responsible for coordinating such mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery activities, as well as publishing and distributing this Plan and changes as required. Every effort has been made to assure this Plan’s compatibility with planning guidance provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Washington Military Department’s Emergency Management Division. This Plan will be used to direct and coordinate response and recovery efforts to protect the lives, health and property of citizens of Whatcom County. I request that all jurisdictions, agencies and organizations in Whatcom County study this plan, and be prepared to discharge their emergency responsibilities, or to support the emergency responsibilities of others. All jurisdictional Chief Elected Officials should be familiar with this Plan. They should prepare, as appropriate, emergency response plans for their jurisdictions, and coordinate emergency response planning through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management to ensure a prompt response to, and timely recovery from emergencies and disasters. In addition, the Director of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will be responsible for coordinating maintenance of this Plan, and working with other levels of government to maintain the organizational capabilities and resources necessary to effectively implement this plan.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS RECORD OF DISTRIBUTION ...... 6 RECORD OF CHANGES ...... 7 LOCATION AND TOPOGRAPHY ...... 8 INTRODUCTION ...... 8 PURPOSE ...... 9 SCOPE ...... 10 LIMITATIONS ...... 11 EMERGENCY POWERS ...... 12 PROCLAMATION OF EMERGENCY ...... 12 DIRECTION AND CONTROL ...... 12 EMERGENCY AUTHORITY ...... 13 LAWS AND AUTHORITIES ...... 14 SITUATION ...... 16 PLANNING ASSUMPTIONS ...... 17 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT CONCEPTS ...... 18 MITIGATION ACTIVITIES ...... 18 PREPAREDNESS ACTIVITIES ...... 18 RESPONSE ACTIVITIES ...... 19 RECOVERY ACTIVITIES ...... 19 PREVENTION AND PROTECTION ACTIVITIES ...... 20 PLANS, PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES ...... 20 ASSIGNMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES ...... 23 WHATCOM COUNTY EXECUTIVE ...... 23 POLITICAL SUBDIVISION CHIEFS, ELECTED OFFICIALS OR APPOINTED ADMINISTRATORS ...... 23 WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ...... 23 WHATCOM COUNTY GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS ...... 24 WHATCOM COUNTY EMPLOYEES ...... 24 CITIZENS OF WHATCOM COUNTY ...... 25 INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT MEMBERS ...... 26 COORDINATION WITH LOCAL, STATE & FEDERAL AGENCIES ...... 27 WHATCOM COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE ...... 27 WHATCOM COUNTY FIRE & EMS SERVICES ...... 28 WHATCOM COUNTY LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES ...... 28 WHATCOM COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES ...... 28 WHATCOM COUNTY MUTUAL AID AGREEMENTS ...... 28
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WHATCOM COUNTY MITIGATION ACTIVITIES ...... 29 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS ...... 30 NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM ...... 30 LEVELS OF EMERGENCY ...... 30 PLAN ACTIVATION ...... 31 WHATCOM UNIFIED EMERGENCY COORDINATION CENTER ...... 31 NOTIFICATIONS ...... 32 ESSENTIAL OPERATIONS ...... 34 INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM ...... 35 JURISDICTIONAL AGENCIES AND ORGANIZATIONS ...... 36 UNIFIED COMMAND REPRESENTATIVE / INCIDENT COMMANDER ...... 40 GENERAL STAFF ...... 46 OPERATIONS SECTION ...... 46 PLANNING SECTION ...... 48 LOGISTICS SECTION ...... 49 FINANCE/ADMINISTRATION SECTION ...... 50 RESPONSIBILITIES ...... 51 ASSIGNMENT OF GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES ...... 51 ASSIGNMENT OF DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES ...... 51 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTIONS ...... 56 ANNEX 1 – WHATCOM COUNTY ORGANIZATIONAL CHART ...... ANNEX 1-1 ANNEX 2 – WHATCOM COUNTY ICS ORGANIZATION ...... ANNEX 2-1 ANNEX 3 – EMERGENCY NUMBERS ...... ANNEX 3-1 ANNEX 4 - DEFINITIONS ...... ANNEX 4-1 ANNEX 5 – ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ...... ANNEX 5-1 ANNEX 6 – WARNING ...... ANNEX 6-1 INTRODUCTION & PURPOSE ...... ANNEX 6-1 SITUATION ...... ANNEX 6-1 ASSUMPTIONS ...... ANNEX 6-2 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS ...... ANNEX 6-2 RESPONSIBILITIES ...... ANNEX 6-4 ANNEX 7 - EVACUATION ...... ANNEX 7-1 INTRODUCTION & PURPOSE ...... ANNEX 7-1 SITUATION ...... ANNEX 7-1 ASSUMPTIONS ...... ANNEX 7-2 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS ...... ANNEX 7-2
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RESPONSIBILITIES ...... ANNEX 7-5 ANNEX 8 – DEFENSE SUPPORT TO CIVIL AUTHORITIES ...... ANNEX 8-1 INTRODUCTION & PURPOSE ...... ANNEX 8-1 SITUATION ...... ANNEX 8-1 ASSUMPTIONS ...... ANNEX 8-1 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS ...... ANNEX 8-1 RESPONSIBILITIES ...... ANNEX 8-2 ANNEX 9 – DAMAGE ASSESSMENT ...... ANNEX 9-1 INTRODUCTION & PURPOSE ...... ANNEX 9-1 SITUATION ...... ANNEX 9-1 ASSUMPTIONS ...... ANNEX 9-1 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS ...... ANNEX 9-2 RESPONSIBILITIES ...... ANNEX 9-4 ANNEX 10 – EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTIONS ...... ANNEX 10-1 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #1 TRANSPORATION ...... ANNEX 10-2 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #2 COMMUNICATIONS ...... ANNEX 10-6 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #3 PUBLIC WORKS AND ENGINEERING ...... ANNEX 10-10 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #4 FIREFIGHTING ...... ANNEX 10-15 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #5 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ...... ANNEX 10-19 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #6 - MASS CARE, EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE, EMERGENCY HOUSING, AND HUMAN SERVICES ...... ANNEX 10-26 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #7 – LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT AND RESOURCE SUPPORT ...... ANNEX 10-31 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #8 – PUBLIC HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES ...... ANNEX 10-35 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #9 – SEARCH AND RESCUE ...... ANNEX 10-43 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #10 – OIL AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ...... ANNEX 10-48 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #11 – AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES ...... ANNEX 10-50 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #12 – ENERGY ...... ANNEX 10-59 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #13 – PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECURITY ...... ANNEX 10-62 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #14 – LONG-TERM RECOVERY ...... ANNEX 10-66 EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #15 – EXTERNAL AFFAIRS ...... ANNEX 10-75 ANNEX 11 - HAZARD SPECIFIC PLANS, STANDARD OPERATING GUIDES, CHECKLISTS ...... ………ANNEX 11-1
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RECORD OF DISTRIBUTION
Whatcom County Whatcom County Executive Whatcom County Human Resources Whatcom County Admin Services Whatcom County Information Technology Whatcom County Assessor Whatcom County Medical Examiner Whatcom County Auditor Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Whatcom County Council Whatcom County Planning & Development Services Whatcom County District Court Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney Whatcom County District Court Probation Whatcom County Public Defender Whatcom County Facilities Management Whatcom County Public Works Whatcom County Finance Whatcom County Sheriff Whatcom County Health Department Whatcom County Superior Court Whatcom County Hearing Examiner Whatcom County Treasurer Emergency Management Council City of Blaine City of Nooksack City of Everson City of Sumas City of Ferndale Port of Bellingham City of Lynden Law Enforcement City of Blaine Police Department Lummi Nation Police Department City of Bellingham Police Department National Park Service City of Ferndale Police Department Nooksack Indian Tribe Police Department City of Lynden Police Department Washington State Patrol City of Everson Police Department Western Washington University City of Sumas Police Department Fire Departments and Districts Fire District 1 Fire District 17 Fire District 5 Fire District 18 Fire District 7 Fire District 19 Fire District 8 Bellingham Fire Department Fire District 11 Lynden Fire Department Fire District 14 North Whatcom Fire & Rescue Fire District 16 South Whatcom Fire Authority Tribal and First Nations Lummi Tribe Semiahmoo First Nation Nooksack Tribe Outside Organizations American Red Cross Seattle City Light City of Bellingham What-Comm PeaceHealth Whatcom SAR Council City of Bellingham What-Comm Customs & Border Protection – Air & Marine Customs & Border Protection – Field Operations Customs & Border Protection – Customs & Border Patrol United States Coast Guard School Districts Bellingham School District Meridian School District Blaine School District Mt. Baker School District Ferndale School District Nooksack Valley School District Lynden School District
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RECORD OF CHANGES NOTICE TO PLAN HOLDERS: In order to maintain a current Whatcom County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management may issue changes periodically. Please make those changes upon receipt, and record them on this page. If a previous change number shows no entry you may not have an up-to-date version of the plan.
CHANGE # DATE MADE LOCATION/PAGE (S) CHANGED
01 03/01/2017 Update to Whatcom County 2012 CEMP
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Whatcom County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
LOCATION AND TOPOGRAPHY
Whatcom County is the northernmost county in the state of Washington. Whatcom County contains 2,154 square miles that border on British Columbia, Canada to the north, Okanogan County to the east, Skagit County to the south and the Strait of Georgia to the west. Much of the county is mountainous and part of National Forest and National Parks. Fifty miles east of Bellingham lies the highest peak in the North Cascade mountain range, Mount Baker (10,778 feet), an ice-clad volcano. Providing the state’s longest ski season, the volume of snow and ice on Mount Baker is greater than that of all the other Cascade Mountain volcanoes combined, except Mount Rainier. A deep-water port, Bellingham’s Squalicum Harbor is the second largest harbor in Puget Sound. The County Seat and Administrative Offices for Whatcom County Government are located at 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, WA, 98225, approximately 90 miles north of Seattle and 23 miles south of the Canadian border. Point Roberts, the county’s most northerly community, requires a crossing through Canada. INTRODUCTION It is the policy of the governments of Whatcom County - to protect lives, property, and the environment - in cooperation with other elements of our jurisdiction to prevent, prepare for, mitigate, respond to, and recover from natural and manmade emergencies and disasters. The
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Whatcom County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan was written to assist in carrying out this policy. Disruptive Events can happen suddenly, creating situations in which normal functions and services provided by Government and the daily lives of the citizens of Whatcom County can become overwhelmed. Disruptive Events are defined as any emergency management incident or event that requires a response beyond the organizations regular responsibilities. Examples include planned and unplanned demonstrations, rallies and protests, as well as both natural and technological incidents or events. During incidents or events, Whatcom County may require special programs to address the needs of response operations and recovery management. Whatcom County has established this Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan as its guideline for the management of the immediate actions and operations required to respond to any disruptive event that stresses, overwhelms, or exceeds the ability of local resources to respond. The overall priorities of Whatcom County during any disruptive event are the protection of lives, property, the community, and the environment. The overall objective is to respond and manage the process of recovery. PURPOSE This plan provides the management structure, key responsibilities, assignments, and general procedures to follow during and immediately following a disruptive event, including recovery. Whatcom County has established this plan to address the immediate requirements for a major disruptive event in which normal operations are interrupted and special measures must be taken to: ü Save and protect the lives and safety of the citizens of Whatcom County; ü Manage immediate communications and information regarding emergency response operations and safety; ü Provide essential services and operations; ü Provide and analyze information to support decision-making and action plans; and; ü Manage Whatcom County resources effectively in the emergency response. This plan does not supersede or replace the procedures for safety or other procedures that are already in place in Whatcom County. It supplements those procedures with a crisis management structure, which provides for the immediate focus of management on response operations and the early transition to recovery operations.
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SCOPE This plan applies to the Whatcom County, its Departments and employees as well as those organizations for which Whatcom County provides emergency management services either through the Interlocal Agreement for the Provision of Emergency Management Services or through other contractual agreements to provide emergency management services. This plan does not apply to the City of Bellingham as the City maintains its own Office of Emergency Management. Where other agencies and institutions are mentioned, the plan describes understandings or agreements about their expected actions. Whatcom County, the City of Bellingham, the State of Washington, and the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency maintain separate emergency plans and operations. In general, Whatcom County will request assistance from the other jurisdictions when its resources are depleted, or the incident characteristics require outside expertise and/or legal notifications/response from other local, state or federal agencies. When disruptive events occur in Whatcom County, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is responsible for coordinating response and recovery when local agencies or resources require support. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management serves as the emergency management organization and coordinator for the participating jurisdictions. Each jurisdiction is urged to have its own written emergency plan that supports this plan. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will provide support functions to each participating jurisdiction, as outlined in the Interlocal Cooperative Agreement for Provision of Emergency Management Services and as decided by the Emergency Management Council. During a disruptive event, each participating jurisdiction is responsible for coordinating tactical operations within its jurisdiction. The Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, in accordance with the Interlocal Agreement, may be used by any participating jurisdiction to conduct planning and coordinate resources in a local or regional disaster. For the purposes of this plan, the term “emergency” means disruptive incidents or events beyond the control of Whatcom County that either: (1) presents a real immediate threat to the proper performance of essential functions, or (2) will likely result in material loss or damage to property, bodily injury, or loss of life if immediate action is not taken. A “disaster” means the disruptive event is beyond the capabilities of the responding organizations or jurisdiction. This plan integrates elements of the National Response Framework, the National Incident Management System including the Incident Command System. Since the National Incident Management System and the Incident Command System is the fundamental operating platform, Whatcom County has formatted this plan to reflect the National Incident Management System and the Incident Command System operational structure. This Plan includes Annexes for the Emergency Support Functions 1-15. These are included to assist in interfacing with the State and National approaches to Emergency Management.
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This plan is consistent with the National Response Framework or the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan:
National Response Framework Federal Government
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan State of Washington
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan Whatcom County
Policies and Procedures Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Department Specific
In all disruptive events, Whatcom County efforts will proceed according to these priorities: 1. Eliminate major threats to life and safety. 2. Maintain essential management continuity. 3. Protect critical assets. 4. Eliminate major threats to public and private property. 5. Protect the environment. 6. Restore essential systems and services. 7. Minimize economic disruption. 8. Restore normal business and management operations. LIMITATIONS The diverse nature of disruptive events makes it likely no single department; agency or jurisdiction can handle all potential incidents alone. It is neither implied nor inferred that this plan guarantees a perfect response. No plan can shield individuals from all incidents or events. While every reasonable effort will be made to respond to disruptive events, resources and/or systems may be overwhelmed. Some incidents or events provide little or no warning to implement operational procedures, and all emergency plans are dependent upon tactical execution that may be imperfect.
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EMERGENCY POWERS PROCLAMATION OF EMERGENCY A local Proclamation of Emergency is the legal instrument that authorizes extraordinary measures to solve disaster-related problems. A proclamation allows for the emergency use of resources without regard to time-consuming procedures and formalities prescribed by law, and activates extraordinary measures as outlined in this plan. The County Executive or in his/her absence, the Whatcom County Deputy Executive or in the absence of both, the Executive Pro Tempore of the County Council has the authority to make a Proclamation of Emergency for Whatcom County. In the event the Whatcom County Deputy Executive is also absent; the Whatcom County Sheriff has the authority to make a Proclamation of Emergency for Whatcom County. If the situation exceeds or is anticipated to exceed the capabilities of Whatcom County, the County Executive may request assistance from the Governor, or from the Federal government through the Governor. DIRECTION AND CONTROL Direction and control of emergency management functions for Whatcom County government is the responsibility of the County Executive RCW 38.52.070 (1). The County Executive has delegated that responsibility to the Director of Emergency Management, who is the Whatcom County Sheriff. The Director of Emergency Management is responsible for the direction and control of emergency management activities in the unincorporated areas of Whatcom County under Ordinance 89-115. In the Directors absence, the Deputy Director of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management (appointed by the Whatcom County Sheriff) is responsible for the management of direction and control of emergency response in the unincorporated areas of Whatcom County under Ordinance 89-115. The Director of Emergency Management is subject to the direction and control of the County Executive regarding disaster-related decisions about priorities and disaster response policy as contained in RCW 38.52.070. Direction and control of emergency management functions in incorporated cities rests with the mayor or city manager of each city, although that responsibility may be delegated by local ordinance. In accordance with State law, the chief executive officer of each jurisdiction retains both the authority and responsibility for direction and control as contained in RCW 38.52.070, even when that jurisdiction participates in a joint emergency management organization. In accordance with County Ordinance 89-115 and Whatcom County Code 2.40 the Director of Emergency Management is responsible for carrying out actions to prevent, prepare for, mitigate, respond to and recover from disasters, subject to the direction of the County Executive, for the unincorporated portions of Whatcom County. The Interlocal Agreement extends that responsibility to the incorporated cities, and the Port of Bellingham except for the City of Bellingham who its own Office of Emergency Management.
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The Whatcom County Council’s responsibilities include: ü Filling vacancies of elected officials as provided in the Whatcom County Charter ü Appropriating money to meet emergency expenditure needs EMERGENCY AUTHORITY The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is the lead agency for facilitating coordination among local, State, Federal and private sector agencies and organizations in Whatcom County. The responsibility for all administration of Whatcom County emergency operations rests with the Whatcom County Sheriff. In the case of absence, the Deputy Director of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management serves in this role. The County Executive or in his/her absence, the Whatcom County Deputy Executive may promulgate orders and regulations to protect life, property or to preserve public order and safety. These must be in writing and given widespread publicity. The Whatcom County Council must confirm these orders no more than 48 hours after their issuance. During a declared Local Emergency, the County Executive or Whatcom County Sheriff may buy or commandeer supplies and/or equipment immediately required (per RCW 38.52.070).
EMERGENCY CONTRACTS When any emergency shall require the immediate execution of a contract, the County Executive, or in his/her absence, the Whatcom County Sheriff or the Deputy Director of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, may declare that an emergency exists and waive competitive bidding requirements. In such cases, the Whatcom County Council must make a written finding of the existence of an emergency and enter it into the record no later than two weeks following the award of the contract.
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LAWS AND AUTHORITIES This plan is established under the following laws and authorities: ü Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VI, Public Law 88-352 ü Code of Federal Regulations Title 44, Part 205 and 205.16. ü Continuity of Government Act (RCW 42.14) ü Empowering Local Partners to Prevent Violent Extremism in the United States ü Executive Order 12656 – Assignment of Emergency Preparedness Responsibilities ü Executive Order 13407 – Public Alert and Warning System ü Executive Order 13526 – Classified National Security Information Memorandum of December 29, 2009—Implementation of the Executive Order ‘‘Classified National Security Information’’ Order of December 29, 2009—Original Classification Authority ü Executive Order 13549 – Classified National Security Information Program for State, Local, Tribal, and Private Sector Entities ü Executive Order 13650 – Improving Chemical Facility Safety and Security ü Executive Order 13653 – Preparing the United States for the Impacts of Climate Change ü Executive Order 13690 – Establishing a Federal Flood Risk Management Standard and a Process for Further Soliciting and Considering Stakeholder Input ü Federal Support for Local Law Enforcement Equipment Acquisition ü FEMA Incident Action Planning Guide ü Inter-county Mutual Aid Agreement ü Interlocal Agreement for the Provision of Emergency Management Services ü Memorandum of Understanding Between Bellingham Technical College And Whatcom County ü Memorandum of Understanding Between Western Washington University and Whatcom County ü Mt. Baker Coordination Plan, Skagit County Department of Emergency Services, Whatcom County Emergency Services, 1995. ü Mutual Aid Agreement Between Bellingham and Whatcom County, Cob Contract 2008 – 0072 ü National Disaster Recovery Framework ü National Emergency Communications Plan ü National Incident Management System ü National Infrastructure Protection Plan ü National Mitigation Framework ü National Preparedness Guidelines ü National Prevention Framework ü National Response Framework ü National Security Directive 66 ü National Security Presidential Directive/NSPD-54 and Homeland Security Presidential Directive/HSPD-23 (Cybersecurity Policy) ü NFPA 1600, Recommended Practice for Disaster Management, 1995 ü Presidential Policy Directive/PPD-41 (United States Cyber Incident Coordination) ü Presidential Executive Orders 13347 and 13166
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ü Public Law 920, Federal Civil Defense Act of 1950 ü Public Law 93-288, The Disaster Relief Act of 1974, as amended by Public Law 100-707, the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. ü Public Law 99-499, Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986, Title III, Emergency Planning Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). ü Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 38.52 ü Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 38.52, Emergency Management ü Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 38.54, State Fire Service Mobilization ü Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 39.34, Interlocal Cooperation Act ü Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 49.60.030 Freedom of Discrimination - Declaration of Civil Rights; ü Subtitle A of Title II of the American with Disabilities Act, as amended; 44 Code of Federal Regulations 206.11 - Nondiscrimination in Disaster Assistance ü Superfund Amendment Reauthorization Act of 1986, Title III (SARA Title III – 40 CFR 350- 372) including the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-know Act (EPCRA) ü Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 118, Military Department (Emergency Management) ü Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Chapter 173-185, Oil Movement by Rail And Pipeline Notification ü Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Chapter 296-307-704, Part Y-10, Emergency Response ü Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Chapter 296-824, Emergency Response ü Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Chapter 296-307-70435, Implement and Maintain an Incident Command System ü Washington Governor’s Executive Order mandating NIMS, signed 9/30/2004 ü Whatcom County Code Title 2 Administration and Personnel, Chapter 2.40 Emergency Management
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SITUATION Emergencies and disasters have occurred in Whatcom County and will likely occur again. They can occur with little or no warning, causing significant human suffering, injury and death, public and private property damage, environmental degradation, loss of essential services, economic hardship to businesses, families and individuals, and disruption to state and local governments, and other governmental entities. Whatcom County is considered a high-risk disaster area due to the following: 1. Several earthquake faults are located in Whatcom County. In addition, throughout Whatcom County there are many earthquake vulnerable buildings and wide areas of Whatcom County that would be subject to liquefaction. 2. The Whatcom County road network is highly dependent on bridges and overpasses which are likely to fail in multiple scenarios including earthquakes, landslides and flooding. 3. Whatcom County is vulnerable to severe weather, such as snow and ice storms, and high winds. 4. Whatcom County lies in the path of air traffic lanes including Bellingham International Airport, Vancouver International Airport and Abbotsford International Airport. 5. A major interstate highway and several main routes of travel Whatcom County, making Whatcom County at risk for both mass casualty and hazardous materials transportation incidents. 6. Residents and businesses use hazardous materials. 7. Due to our proximity to the US/Canadian border, potential acts of terrorism against civilians and industry is a threat, as well as significant criminal activity including major drug, human and gun smuggling. 8. Multiple areas of Whatcom County are subject to flooding, landslides/mudslides, and interface forest fires. 9. Whatcom County is faced with potential effects from epidemics/pandemics.
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PLANNING ASSUMPTIONS Essential Whatcom County services will be maintained if possible. Some or all services may be lost in a large-scale incident or event. If so, Whatcom County will first seek to maintain important lifelines and serve special populations whose life depends on the provision of these services. A major, widespread catastrophe may isolate Whatcom County. Any significant assistance from outside resources may not occur for days or weeks. Whatcom County, citizens, businesses, state agencies and industries will need to utilize their own resources during this time. Whatcom County may request assistance from the City of Bellingham Office of Emergency Management, the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division, and/or the federal government if exhaustion of local resources is imminent. Whatcom County has limited capabilities to cope with complex disruptive events within its jurisdictional boundaries. Limitations exist primarily in the areas of trained personnel, equipment and emergency funds. Communications systems are particularly vulnerable to damage and /or overload during an emergency. Disruptive events could create significant property damage, injury, death, and disruption of essential services, within Whatcom County. These situations may also create significant financial, psychological and sociological impacts on Whatcom County and its citizens. An incident may occur with sufficient warning to allow appropriate community notification and preparation. Other disasters, such as earthquakes, occur with no advanced warning. If an emergency response needs the activation of an Incident Command Post, the emergency response plans and operating procedures of select departments, Divisions, staffs, etc. are listed in the Operational Guidelines for the Whatcom Unified Emergency Operations Center. Whatcom County may not be able to satisfy all requests during a major disruptive event.
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EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT CONCEPTS Emergency Management in Whatcom County is conducted under the National Preparedness Goal’s core mission areas of mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, prevention and protection. The National Incident Management System and the Incident Command System will be the primary management scheme for local, multi-agency, and multi-jurisdictional operations in Whatcom County. The National Incident Management System and the Incident Command System is the operational structure for Whatcom Counties Emergency Operations Center, as well as for field operations. MITIGATION ACTIVITIES Mitigation activities are proactive steps aimed at reducing the impact of potential disasters. Mitigation activities are normally undertaken during non-disaster time periods: ü Review hazards and risk analysis. ü Develop capabilities and resources to enhance our ability to respond to disasters, whether identified or not in the hazard analysis. ü Develop contingency plans and suggested operating procedures in support of the Emergency Operations Plan. ü Coordinate with other local, county, state, and federal agencies to ensure cohesive working relationships and compatible plans are in place. ü Conduct mitigation activities to protect Whatcom County supplies, services, and property. ü Conduct public education to enhance citizen and business survivability in disasters. ü Provide guidance to policy makers on legislation needed in the areas of land use and building and fire codes where mitigation would address disaster potential. PREPAREDNESS ACTIVITIES Preparedness activities are designed to prepare and train emergency response workers and citizens for responding appropriately during emergency operations and disasters. They also prepare Whatcom County facilities, and the homes of Whatcom County emergency workers, for emergency situations. Preparedness activities in Whatcom County include: ü Conduct training activities within Whatcom County government, outside agencies, and the public. ü Coordinate volunteer organizations to assure cohesive working relationships and coordinated responses. ü Provide timely input to the budget process on an annual basis. ü Conduct public education to enhance citizen and business survivability. ü Alert Whatcom County workers and public as to types of warnings they may receive. ü Identify public shelter facilities. ü Conducting exercises.
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RESPONSE ACTIVITIES Response activities are emergency operations undertaken during the acute phase of a disaster and include: ü Initiation of actions necessary to preserve life and property and the environment, utilizing available resources. ü Making appropriate notifications and initiate actions to place emergency plans into effect. ü Activating and staffing the Whatcom County Emergency Operations Center as required for the situation. ü Disseminating emergency warning as appropriate. ü Carrying out initial damage assessment and evaluate situation. ü Executing response functions, and coordinate response and support functions with outside agencies and volunteer organizations. ü Coordinating operations, logistics, planning and finance functions. ü Compiling incident or event status information and provide timely reports. ü Preparing and maintain detailed documentation of activities. ü Providing public information and additional warnings as appropriate. ü Waive, or orally approve, requirements for environmental review and permits during emergency work performed to protect life and property as provided for in the State Environmental Policy Act and related WAC, the State Hydraulics Act, the Forest Practices Act, the Shoreline Management Act, or the Flood Control Act ü Preparing Declaration(s) of Disaster as appropriate. RECOVERY ACTIVITIES Recovery activities are undertaken to assist the community in regaining a level of societal, governmental and commercial activity that existed before an emergency and include: ü Executing damage assessment functions and assess community needs. ü Prioritizing recovery projects and assign functions accordingly. ü Coordinating recovery efforts and logistical needs with supporting agencies and organizations. ü Preparing documentation of incidents or events, including logs, cost analyses and estimated recovery costs. ü Facilitating the establishment of disaster assistance offices to assist citizens and private business with individual recovery. ü Assessing special community needs and provide information and assistance where appropriate. ü Incorporating Whatcom County short term and long-term community plans into recovery and reconstruction activities. Recovery operations will be started according to County priorities and based on the availability of personnel and resources that do not conflict with response operations. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will assist participating jurisdictions in recovery operations.
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Repair and restoration of damaged facilities may require an environmental impact permit prior to final project approval in accordance with State law. Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), the Hydraulics Act (HPA), the Forest Practices Act, the Shoreline Management Act and the Flood Control Act, as well as the rules governing historic sites. PREVENTION AND PROTECTION ACTIVITIES Prevention and Protection activities are those capabilities necessary to avoid, prevent, or stop threatened or actual acts of terrorism, man-made or natural disasters and include: ü Deliver coordinated, prompt, reliable, and actionable information to the whole community using clear, consistent, accessible, and culturally and linguistically appropriate methods to effectively relay information regarding any threat or hazard, as well as the actions being taken and the assistance being made available, as appropriate. ü Assist the community in understanding ways to identify threats and/or hazards and how to report such activity to the appropriate agency. ü Establish and maintain partnerships among Protection elements to support networking, planning, and coordination. ü Help to ensure critical infrastructure sectors and Protection elements have and maintain risk assessment processes to identify and prioritize assets, systems, networks, and functions. PLANS, PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management actively works with multiple jurisdictions, agencies and organizations to assist in the writing, evaluating, and exercising of plans. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management also writes hazard specific plans and procedures, as well as specialized operational plans. The list of plans, procedures and guidelines that the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management works includes: 1. 2005 Northwest Regional Fire Mobilization Plan 2. Abbotsford Airport Emergency Plan 3. Acme-Jones Creek Emergency Plan 4. ALCOA Spill Prevention, Control, and Counter Measure Plan 5. ALCOA Release Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Plan for INTALCO Aluminum Corporation 6. American Red Cross Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 7. Bellingham International Airport Emergency Plan 8. Blaine Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 9. BLI Airport Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 10. BP Cherry Point Oil Spill Contingency Plan 11. BP. Ferndale Pipeline System. Emergency Response Field Document 12. Burlington Northern - Santa Fe Emergency Plan 13. CANUSWEST Regional Annex: Canada-United States Joint Inland Pollution Contingency Plan 14. Cascade Natural Gas Emergency Shutdown Procedure 15. Cherry Point Refinery: Oil Spill Contingency Plan
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16. Chevron Pipeline Co. - Ferndale Terminal & Company Core Plan 17. CHEVRON Pipeline Company. Ferndale Terminal Emergency Response Plan 18. City of Bellingham Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 19. Delta Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 20. Emergency Action Plan Nooksack River Flood 21. Emergency Skagit River Project Emergency Action Plan FERC Project Action Plan-Geneva Preserve Pond 22. Encogen NW Emergency Response Plan 23. Everson Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 24. Ferndale Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 25. Ferndale Pipeline System Emergency Response Plan 26. Ferndale Refinery: Integrated Contingency Plan 27. Fire Mobilization Plan-Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management 28. International Hazardous Materials Response Plan 29. International Hazardous Materials Response Plan for Whatcom County and Lower Mainland British Columbia 30. Logistics Staging Area - Whatcom County 31. Lummi Nation Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 32. Lummi Nation Major Emergency Response Plan 33. Lummi Nation Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan 34. Lynden Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 35. Mt. Baker - Glacier Peak Coordination Plan 36. Nooksack CEMP 37. Nooksack Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 38. Northwest Area Contingency Plan 2016; also, Serving as the Region Ten Regional Contingency Plan 39. Oil Pipeline Corporation Emergency Response Plan 40. Olympic Pipeline Company Spill Response Plan 41. Olympic Pipeline Northern WA Geographic Response Plan 42. Olympic Pipeline Spill Response Plan 43. Olympic Pipeline Whatcom County Geographic Response Plans 44. PeaceHealth Hospital Emergency Plan 45. Phillips 66 Emergency Response Action Plan 46. Phillips 66 Integrated Contingency Plan 47. Port of Bellingham CEMP 48. Port of Bellingham Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 49. Post Point Emergency Response Plan 50. Praxair Inc. Ferndale Emergency Response and Contingency Plan 51. PSE Baker River Project 52. PSE Corporate Emergency Response Plan 53. PSE Emergency Action Plan for the Baker River Project 54. Regional Healthcare System Plan for All Hazards Preparedness and Response. REGION I 55. Regional Law Enforcement Mobilization Plan and Mutual Aid Agreement 56. San Juan Islands and North Puget Sound Geographic Response Plans (GRPs) 57. Seattle City Light - Skagit River Project Emergency Action Plan
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58. Seattle City Light: SKAGIT PROJECT Emergency Response Plan for Hazardous Material Incidents “SKERP” 59. SERP - Operating Guidelines 60. Skagit River Project Emergency Action Plan FERC Project 553- 61. St. Joseph Hospital Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 62. State and Regional Disaster Airlift Operations Plan 63. Sudden Valley Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 64. Sudden Valley Emergency Response Plan 65. Sumas Cogeneration Plant Emergency Plan 66. Sumas Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 67. Tactical Interoperable Communications Plan 68. Tenaska Ferndale Cogeneration Emergency Response and Contingency Plan 69. Terasen Pipelines Emergency Response Plan 70. Terasen Pipelines Emergency Response Plan Puget Sound - Area 6 71. Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 72. Washington State Department of Ecology Emergency Action Plan - Geneva Preserve 73. Washington State Department of Ecology Emergency Action Plan - Horton Rd. Detention Pond 74. Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan 75. Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Division of Emergency Management Recovery Plan Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 76. Western Washington University Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 77. Whatcom County Coastal Study 78. Whatcom County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 79. Whatcom County Disaster Debris Management Plan 80. Whatcom County Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 81. Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Division of Emergency Management Recovery Plan and Checklists 82. Whatcom County Terrorism Annex 83. Whatcom County Tsunami Action Plan 84. Whatcom Unified Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan 85. Williams (Northwest Pipeline) Emergency Response Plan 86. Williams Gas Pipeline – West: Public Safety Response Manual Sumas District 87. Williams Pipeline (Sumas) Public Safety Response Manual
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ASSIGNMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES This plan provides standing mission assignments to departments with primary and support responsibilities to perform response activities. This section covers departmental general emergency responsibilities. WHATCOM COUNTY EXECUTIVE ü May authorize activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center ü Issues appropriate policies, orders and declarations, as necessary ü Signs Proclamation of Emergency, when necessary ü Requests State and Federal disaster assistance when necessary ü Makes decisions regarding priorities and disaster response policy, when required ü Provides liaison with local, State and congressional elected officials POLITICAL SUBDIVISION CHIEFS, ELECTED OFFICIALS OR APPOINTED ADMINISTRATORS ü May authorize activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center ü Issue appropriate policies, orders and declarations, as necessary ü Sign Proclamation of Emergency, when necessary ü Request local, State and Federal disaster assistance through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center ü Make decisions regarding priorities and disaster response policy, when required WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ü Provides overall direction and control of County emergency operations ü May authorize activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center ü Makes decisions regarding priorities and disaster response policy when required ü Performs as Incident Commander as appropriate ü Recommends Proclamations of Emergency ü Responsible for the emergency functions to mitigate, prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies disasters ü Directs on-scene emergency operations in accordance with established protocols ü Reviews and approve press releases ü Manages and maintains the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center ü Prepares Proclamations of Emergency and requests for State and Federal assistance ü Functions as lead agency for facilitating coordination among local, State, Federal and private sector agencies and organizations in Whatcom County regarding emergency management ü Fulfills the requirements of the Interlocal Agreement
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WHATCOM COUNTY GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS It is the policy of Whatcom County that the head of each department is responsible for the following: ü Developing plans for the continuation of essential departmental services and functions during and after a disaster; ü Providing for the identification and preservation of essential department records; ü Appointing a liaison to work with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management in the development and maintenance of this plan and procedures; ü Establishing policy for 24-hour contact to activate department responsibilities; ü Developing the capability to continue operations in a disaster and to carry out the responsibilities outlined herein; ü Developing employee/family support programs during a disaster; ü Developing guidelines and policies addressing the following: o Each department's chain of command o Where the departmental emergency operations will be managed o The resources needed to manage departmental emergency operations o The information needed to manage departmental emergency activities, and how it will be obtained o Departmental capabilities and responsibilities o Departmental resources o How the department will coordinate with Whatcom Counties Incident Command Post o Ensuring that department staff are aware of the department's policies, emergency plan, and of the contents of this plan. WHATCOM COUNTY EMPLOYEES Whatcom County has employees whose regular duties and training give them obvious roles in emergency response, and employees whose regular duties and training do no lend themselves to specific roles during emergencies. Both types of employees may be required to assist emergency response efforts. In general, employees who are directed to participate in emergency response activities will report to their respective departments to receive instruction, unless alternate arrangements have been made by the department in its planned emergency procedures. In an emergency, the Whatcom County Incident Management Team will determine the number of employees required for response activities and communicate that information to employees by whatever means necessary, including AlertSense messaging and/or emergency broadcasts through local media. In general, employees will continue to work with their normal departments and supervisors during emergency response efforts. However, depending on circumstances, they may be directed to undertake duties outside their department’s normal responsibilities. Such direction will be given by the Whatcom County Incident Management Team either directly, or through an employee’s acting supervisor.
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When an emergency or disaster occurs, Whatcom County employees who are directed to report for emergency duties will report to the location of their departments for assignment to duty by supervisors. Whatcom County employees should also be familiar with individual Department Plans. During emergency operations, non-essential administrative activities may be suspended. Personnel not assigned to essential duties may be assigned to other departments to provide support services during and immediately after a disaster. Depending on how geographically widespread the emergency is and travel impediments, there may be alternative assignments of personnel between jurisdictions, more proximate to the employees' residences. During the work on any major emergency, coordination of the deployment, work and care of emergency workers, whether staff or volunteer, is essential to avoid chaos and to use staffing wisely. Emergency workers, whether “emergency responders” or other personnel, need to have the assurance that their families are safe and able to cope with the emergency without them. The emergency may require employees to work extraordinary hours. They may be unprepared to remain at work for such extended periods of time. They may not be able to return home for several days. They may be concerned about the welfare of their families. They may have a need for rest, as well as adequate food and clothing to work the emergency. Some may have medical needs, e.g., insulin dependent individuals. Some may have spiritual needs if the emergency results in significant injury to citizens, fellow workers or family members. Employees may have child care needs; day care for emergency worker’s children must be considered. Whatcom County will use available personnel for field operations or management, in this order: ü Whatcom County employees ü Skilled individuals from other agencies, organizations, and businesses ü Volunteers ü The State will indemnify Whatcom County employees acting as emergency workers for acts done in good faith compliance, except for willful misconduct, gross negligence or bad faith (per RCW 38.52.195). CITIZENS OF WHATCOM COUNTY ü Citizens may be pressed into service by the County Executive or Director (this option is available only for a disaster proclaimed by the Governor (per RCW 38.52.110). Citizens pressed into service are considered “Emergency Workers” (per RCW 38.52 and Washington Administrative Code Section 118) and are entitled to all privileges and immunities as outlined in those codes. Those individuals who are not Whatcom County employees must be registered as outlined in WAC 118.04.
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INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT MEMBERS ü Appoint a jurisdictional emergency management coordinator to work with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Designate a location for tactical response operations ü Coordinate the jurisdiction’s response with the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center ü Affected jurisdictions will implement their emergency plans, however when agency resources cannot meet the needs, additional assistance including mutual aid may be requested through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management.
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COORDINATION WITH LOCAL, STATE & FEDERAL AGENCIES WHATCOM COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE The Whatcom County government is a municipal corporation operating under a County Charter. Voters approved the County Charter in 1978. The Charter acts as a county constitution. Whatcom County is one of only four counties in Washington to use the home rule charter provision of state law. Local government is split between the county, incorporated cities and towns, and special purpose districts. These local governments are established and operate according to state law. These local governments operate independently from the county government, although for Emergency Management planning and response they operate under Interlocal Agreement for the Provision of Emergency Management Services or through other contractual agreements to provide emergency management services with the exception of the City of Bellingham which maintains its own Office of Emergency Management under the City of Bellingham Fire Department. Local response organizations and Whatcom County have adopted the NIMS Incident Command System as the standard for incident management. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management works closely with all other political jurisdictions in Whatcom County including local, state and Federal partners as well as with British Columbia, including adjoining border communities and Canadian Provincial and Federal agencies. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is responsible for maintaining the Whatcom County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. Daily emergency management activities are conducted by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management working in the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, a partnership between Whatcom County, the City of Bellingham, the Port of Bellingham, BP Cherry Point, Phillips 66, Kinder Morgan and Shell Anacortes. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management and the City of Bellingham’s Office of Emergency Management staff manage the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. During disasters, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management may open an Emergency Operation or Coordination Center. The primary location is the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, 3888 Sound Way, Bellingham, WA 98226. The State of Washington Emergency Management Division maintains the State Emergency Operations Center at Camp Murray in Tacoma, WA. It is responsible for maintaining the state Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and for coordinating with local emergency management agencies and obtaining outside resources. The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides emergency management services and resource management under the National Response Plan. Federal Emergency Management Agency Region X maintains an Emergency Operations Center in Bothell, WA.
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WHATCOM COUNTY FIRE & EMS SERVICES Typical responsibilities of Whatcom County Fire Districts include: ü Establishment and staffing of Incident Command; ü Fire suppression; ü Emergency Medical Services (While all Whatcom County Fire Districts have responsibilities for Basic Life Support (BLS) EMS service, the Whatcom Medic One is administered and operated by the City of Bellingham through an interlocal agreement with Whatcom County government and is responsible for county-wide Advanced Life Support (ALS) EMS service.) ü Specialized rescue services; ü Request necessary personnel and equipment in accordance with existing mutual aid agreements and the State Resource Mobilization Plan; ü Establish liaison with the responding police department for shore based traffic and crowd control, scene security, and evacuation; ü Hazardous materials response (All Whatcom County Fire Districts have the ability to provide operations level response to hazardous materials incidents. Higher level responses are referred to the Whatcom County Specialized Emergency Response Program Hazmat Team or to private contractors.) WHATCOM COUNTY LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES In addition to expected law enforcement activities, specialized response capabilities include: ü Boat and Dive Teams; ü Bomb disposal; ü Crisis negotiations; ü Criminal investigations; ü Search and Rescue; ü Crowd control; ü K-9 response; ü Special Response Teams WHATCOM COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES Whatcom County falls within the jurisdiction of the Whatcom County Health Department that is tasked with response to public health incidents affecting shore based populations within the boundaries of Whatcom County. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management shall be responsible for coordination and facilitation of any response by Health Department authorities to incidents or events within its boundaries. WHATCOM COUNTY MUTUAL AID AGREEMENTS Whatcom Counties resources may be stretched to exhaustion during an emergency. For such situations, various cities and counties of the state have entered into Mutual Aid Agreements that encourages each political segment of the state to help each other during a disaster or
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Page 28 of 56 emergency. Mutual Aid will be requested and employed by state agencies and jurisdictions when local resources have been or are about to be depleted. Generally, Mutual Aid starts locally and ascends in the following manner: ü Other local cities and municipal corporations (such as fire districts, water districts, sewer districts, public utility districts). ü Whatcom County and the City of Bellingham operate under a formal Mutual Aid Agreement Between Bellingham and Whatcom County. ü State of Washington. ü Federal: coordinated through the Washington Military Department’s Emergency Management Division. ü International - coordinated directly and through the Washington Military Department’s Emergency Management Division, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). WHATCOM COUNTY MITIGATION ACTIVITIES The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management annually reviews local hazards and vulnerabilities. Each Whatcom County Department reviews its own vulnerabilities that may affect normal operations, and include mitigation activities that address those concerns.
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CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM The National Incident Mangement System provides a consistent nationwide template to enable Federal, State, Local, and Tribal governments, and private-sector and non- governmental organizations to work together effectively and efficiently to prepare for, prevent, respond to, and recover from domestic incidents, regardless of cause, size, or complexity, including acts of catastrophic terrorism. The National Incident Mangement System is comprised of several components that work together as a system: ü Command and Management ü Preparedness ü Resource Management ü Communications and Information Management ü Supporting Technologies ü Ongoing Management and Maintenance LEVELS OF EMERGENCY Emergency conditions vary with each incident. As a guide, three levels of emergency are specified, as follows: 1. Level 1 Disruptive Events are handled within Whatcom County by “normal” checklists and/or response activities. While there may be some damage and/or interruption, the conditions are localized and Whatcom County agencies can coordinate and manage the incident or event and site of the incident or event remains open. Implementation of the Whatcom Counties Internal Notification Policy should be considered (see Notifications pages 32-33). 2. Level 2 Disruptive Events that exceed the capabilities of a single Whatcom County response agency to manage the incident or event and causes, or may cause, damage and/or interruption to Whatcom County or Interlocal Agreement members operations. Outside resources are needed to stabilize or mitigate the incident or event. On-scene command will be established. Activation of the Whatcom County Incident Management Team may or may not be needed. Whatcom Counties Emergency Notification Policy shall be implemented (see Notifications pages 32-33). The situation shall be monitored with regular situation reports issued. 3. Level 3 – Disruptive Events that exceed the capacity of Whatcom County agencies to address immediate emergency response. The incident or event may involve a single location or may be wide spread. Whatcom County may need to be self-sufficient for a period of hours to several days. Whatcom Counties Emergency Notification Policy must be implemented (see Notifications pages 32-33).
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PLAN ACTIVATION This plan is activated whenever disruptive events occur in which normal operations cannot be performed and immediate action is required to: 1. Eliminate major threats to life and safety. 2. Maintain essential management continuity. 3. Protect critical assets. 4. Eliminate major threats to public and private property. 5. Protect the environment. 6. Restore essential systems and services. 7. Minimize economic disruption. 8. Restore normal business and management operations. WHATCOM UNIFIED EMERGENCY COORDINATION CENTER The Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, 3888 Sound Way, Bellingham, WA 98226 is the designated as the primary Emergency Operations/Coordination Center for Whatcom County. The building has sufficient infrastructure to accommodate the data hubs and telecommunications needed in a Coordination Center. The Public Works Administration Office, 901 West Smith Road, Bellingham, WA 98226 is the designated alternate Whatcom County Emergency Operations/Coordination Center. Other possible alternate locations include the Whatcom County Courthouse, 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98225 or the City of Lynden City Hall, 300 4th Street, Lynden, WA 98264. Other possibilities include the major fire stations in Whatcom County.
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NOTIFICATIONS For the purposes of this Plan, “Disruptive Event” means unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of Whatcom County that either: 1. Presents a real immediate threat to the proper performance of essential Whatcom County functions, or; 2. Will likely result in material loss or damage to property, bodily injury, or loss of life if immediate action is not taken, or; 3. Has a likelihood of attracting public attention. It is the policy of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management that upon the discovery of emergency, citizens, other agencies, and employees of Whatcom County shall take immediate actions to mitigate or stabilize the emergency. This would include but is not limited to rendering first aid and/or calling 911.
WHATCOM COUNTY EMPLOYEE EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS 1. Employees of Whatcom County must directly notify their immediate supervisor or manager. 2. The supervisor or manager will report the emergency to the department head. To allow the supervisor or manager the ability to rapidly engage the problem operationally, the department head will notify: 2.1. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management Deputy Director; 2.2. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management Deputy Director will notify the Whatcom County Sheriff; 2.3. The Whatcom County Sheriff or designee will notify and update the County Executive. The reporting individual will make notification to the next highest level in the Chain of Command (e.g. in the absence of a supervisor, the employee would make notification to the department head. If the department head were also unavailable, notification would be made directly to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management Deputy Director. In his/her absence, notification would be made to the Whatcom County Sheriff or Undersheriff. Leaving a voice-mail does not constitute an acceptable notification, but a voice mail should be left and the next person on the list must be called. The supervisor/manager or their designees must ensure that additional notifications are made in accordance with any site or incident specific plans or regulatory requirements. Whenever a disruptive event occurs, all necessary efforts should be made to protect human life, then property and then the environment, without endangering employees or the public. As soon as possible after the emergency measures have been taken, the employee in charge is to complete an Activity Log (ICS 214). Incident Reports involving injury to non-employees or property damage shall be forwarded to Whatcom County Human Resources (Attn: Risk Management) for purposes of processing insurance claims. Incident Reports involving injury to
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Page 32 of 56 employees shall also be forwarded to Whatcom County Human Resources (Attn: Risk Management), along with the employee originated (supervisor if employee is unavailable) accident/illness report within 24 hours.
OTHER AGENCY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT NOTIFICATIONS External agencies or organizations who are covered under the Interlocal Cooperative Agreement for Provision of Emergency Management Services, or who have contractually entered into an agreement for emergency management services with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management should follow notifications as follows: 1. Level 1 Disruptive Events 1.1. Notification to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management should be made within three (3) days of the disruptive event via email to [email protected]. It is recommended, but not required that this notification use an ICS 213 form. 2. Level 2 Disruptive Events 2.1. Notification to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management should be made by requesting contact from the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Duty Officer by contacting Prospect or What-Comm 911 Dispatch Center. 2.2. The Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Duty Officer will, depending upon the disruptive event, make further notifications and arrange for appropriate response to support the requesting agency. 3. Level 3 – Disruptive Events 3.1. Notification to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management should be made by requesting contact from the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Duty Officer by contacting Prospect or What-Comm 911 Dispatch Center. 3.2. The Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Duty Officer will, depending upon the disruptive event, make further notifications and arrange for appropriate response to support the requesting agency to include activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center if appropriate. 3.3. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will undertake notification of Whatcom County Government and other external agencies.
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ESSENTIAL OPERATIONS Although operational requirements may change rapidly in disruptive events the following are regarded as being Whatcom County operations essential: 1. Law Enforcement Operations 2. Fire & EMS Operations 3. Public Works Operations The following are regarded as essential internal operations of Whatcom County: 1. Command, Control & Communications 2. Logistical /Maintenance Operations 3. Finance & Administration 4. Legal Counsel
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INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM The Incident Command System is designed to enable effective and efficient domestic incident management by integrating facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and communications to operate within a common organizational structure. The Incident Command System can be used to organize operations for a wide spectrum of emergency incidents, near-term and long- term, from small to complex, whether natural or man-made. All levels of government and NGOs responding to disruptive events in Whatcom County use the Incident Command System. The system is flexible and provides for the inclusion of private-sector representation that may not be familiar with the principles of Incident Command. The Incident Command System is normally structured to facilitate the activities in five functional sections: Command, Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Administration. Unified Command is the application of this same functional structure during a multi-
Command
Operations Finance/Admin Planning Section Logistics Section Section Section
Figure 1 - Incident Command System Functional Structure jurisdictional, multi-agency/organization response. Unified Command overcomes much of the inefficiency and duplication of effort that can occur when a diverse response community operates without a common system or organizational framework. Under Unified Command, representatives of the various groups work together to determine incident response objectives, strategies and priorities. This teamwork method is accomplished without affecting individual entity authority, responsibility or accountability. Whenever possible, decisions regarding the response will be made by consensus and documented through a single Incident Action Plan (IAP). When a consensus cannot be reached, the agency commander with the primary responsibility under the circumstances will have ultimate decision-making authority. There are three possible ways that Whatcom County may be involved with Incident Command System structures: 1. An outside agency such as a fire department may respond to an incident and request Whatcom County personnel interacting as “agency representatives” with the outside agency’s Incident Command System structure. 2. Whatcom County may provide personnel to serve in various Incident Command System positions at an On-Scene Command Post, in an Emergency Operation/Coordination Center.
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3. Whatcom County may initiate the Incident Command System in its own on-scene command post and/or Coordination Center. JURISDICTIONAL AGENCIES AND ORGANIZATIONS Jurisdictional agencies and organizations that may be involved in a Unified Command structure (if declared) during an emergency incident within Whatcom County include (but are not limited to):
INTERNATIONAL 1. Royal Canadian Mounted Police 2. Canada Border Services Agency 3. Canadian Pacific Police Service 4. Canadian National Police Service 5. Department of Fisheries and Oceans 6. Parks Canada 7. Environment Canada 8. Department of National Defence (Canadian Forces) 9. British Columbian Conservation Officer Service 10. British Columbia Sheriff Services 11. Special Provincial Constable 12. Abbotsford Police Department 13. Delta Police Department 14. British Columbia Provincial Emergency Program 15. Chilliwack Search and Rescue 16. Surrey Search and Rescue Society 17. Hope Volunteer Search and Rescue Group 18. E-Comm 911 19. British Columbia Ambulance Service 20. St. John Ambulance Canada 21. Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service 22. Surrey Fire Service 23. Delta Fire Department 24. Langley Fire Department 25. White Rock Fire Department
TRIBAL 1. Lummi Nation 2. Nooksack Indian Tribe 3. Semiahmoo First Nation
FEDERAL AGENCIES / AUTHORITIES 1. Department of Homeland Security 1.1. U.S. Customs and Border Protection
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1.2. U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services 1.3. U.S. Coast Guard 1.4. Federal Emergency Management Agency 1.5. U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement 1.6. U.S. Secret Service 1.7. Transportation Security Administration 2. National Security Council 3. Department of Agriculture 4. Department of Commerce 5. Department of Defense 6. Department of Education 7. Department of Energy 8. Department of Health and Human Services 9. Department of Housing and Urban Development 10. Department of the Interior 11. Department of Justice 11.1. Federal Bureau of Investigation 12. Department of Labor 13. Department of State 14. Department of Transportation 15. Department of the Treasury 16. Department of Veterans Affairs
STATE AGENCIES / AUTHORITIES 1. NW Clean Air Agency 2. Washington State Attorney General 3. Washington State Auditor 4. Washington State Department of Ecology 5. Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife 6. Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife 7. Washington State Department of Natural Resources 8. Washington State Department of Public Health 9. Washington State Department of Social & Health Services 10. Washington State Department of Transportation 11. Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division 12. Washington State Labor and Industries 13. Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board 14. Washington Military Department 15. Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division 16. Washington State Office of the Governor 17. Washington State Patrol 18. Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction 19. Western Washington University Public Safety
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LOCAL JURISDICTIONAL RESPONSE AGENCIES / AUTHORITIES 1. Bellingham Fire Department / Medic One 2. Bellingham Police Department 3. Bellingham Fire Department / Office of Emergency Management 4. Port of Bellingham 5. Whatcom County Administrative Services 6. Whatcom County Assessor 7. Whatcom County Auditor 8. Whatcom County Council 9. Whatcom County Executive 10. Whatcom County District Court 11. Whatcom County District Court Probation 12. Whatcom County Health Department 13. Whatcom County Juvenile Court Administration 14. Whatcom County Law Library 15. Whatcom County Medical Examiner 16. Whatcom County Parks and Recreation 17. Whatcom County Planning and Development Services 18. Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney 19. Whatcom County Public Defender 20. Whatcom County Public Works 21. Whatcom County Sheriff 22. Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management 23. Whatcom County Superior Court 24. Whatcom County Superior Court Clerk 25. Whatcom County Treasurer 26. Whatcom County Fire District 1 (Everson, Nooksack, Deming and the Nooksack Indian Tribe) 27. Fire District 4 (Britton Road, Agate Bay, and Van Wyck) 28. Whatcom County Fire District 5 (Point Roberts) 29. Whatcom County Fire District 7 (Ferndale, North Bellingham, and Point Whitehorn) 30. Whatcom County Fire District 8 (Marietta and Gooseberry Point) 31. Whatcom County Fire District 11 (Lummi Island) 32. Whatcom County Fire District 14 (Sumas, Kendall, and Welcome) 33. Whatcom County Fire District 17 (Sandy Point) 34. Whatcom County Fire District 18 (South Lake Whatcom, Glenhaven, and South Bay) 35. Whatcom County Fire District 19 (Glacier) 36. Whatcom County Fire District 21 (North Whatcom Fire Rescue) 37. South Whatcom Regional Fire Authority 38. Whatcom Transit Authority 39. Bellingham School District serves Bellingham, Chuckanut, Lake Samish, and Sudden Valley. 40. Blaine School District serves Blaine, Birch Bay, and Point Roberts.
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41. Concrete School District serves the county's southeast corner, including Newhalem and Diablo. 42. Ferndale School District serves Ferndale, Custer, Lummi Island, and the Lummi Nation. 43. Lynden School District serves Lynden and surrounding areas. 44. Meridian School District serves rural communities between Bellingham and Lynden. 45. Mount Baker School District serves communities along the Mount Baker Highway and Nooksack River. 46. Nooksack Valley School District serves Everson, Nooksack, and Sumas. 47. City of Blaine including all Departments 48. City of Everson including all Departments 49. City of Ferndale including all Departments 50. City of Lynden including all Departments 51. City of Nooksack including all Departments 52. City of Sumas including all Departments 53. Unincorporated Community of Acme 54. Unincorporated Community of Birch Bay 55. Unincorporated Community of Custer 56. Unincorporated Community of Deming 57. Unincorporated Community of Geneva 58. Unincorporated Community of Glacier 59. Unincorporated Community of Kendall 60. Unincorporated Community of Maple Falls 61. Unincorporated Community of Marietta-Alderwood 62. Unincorporated Community of Peaceful Valley 63. Unincorporated Community of Point Roberts 64. Unincorporated Community of Sudden Valley 65. Unincorporated Community of Blue Canyon 66. Unincorporated Community of Chuckanut 67. Unincorporated Community of Clearbrook 68. Unincorporated Community of Dewey 69. Unincorporated Community of Diablo 70. Unincorporated Community of Laurel 71. Unincorporated Community of Lummi Island 72. Unincorporated Community of Newhalem 73. Unincorporated Community of Saxon 74. Unincorporated Community of Van Buren 75. Unincorporated Community of Wahl 76. Unincorporated Community of Welcome 77. Unincorporated Community of Wickersham
LOCAL NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS (NGOS) 1. American Red Cross 2. Business Owners / Operators 3. Puget Sound Energy
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4. Cascade Natural Gas 5. BNSF 6. Century Link 7. Comcast 8. Peace Health St. Joseph Hospital 9. Salvation Army 10. Volunteer Mobilization Center 11. Colleges and University UNIFIED COMMAND REPRESENTATIVE / INCIDENT COMMANDER The Whatcom County Command Representative represents Whatcom County in the Unified Command and/or when appropriate serves as the Incident Commander (IC). The Whatcom County Sheriff is responsible for all incident management in Whatcom County outside of the City of Bellingham which maintains its own Emergency Management Agency. This responsibility is delegated to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management Deputy Director or to other Sheriff’s Office Chiefs as appropriate who are given the responsibility to be the operational managers. The first person on-scene is responsible for establishing command. If successive levels of management are satisfied that the incident is being well managed, they may continue to monitor the incident or event. It is critical that all levels of management are kept aware of the incident details, objectives and management. Management may assume command at any time. If a transfer of command occurs, it must be communicated to all on-scene response and to incoming response. The transfer of command is best accomplished when done face-to-face with the out-going Incident Command. It should include a briefing that covers: ü Incident history (what has happened) ü Priorities and objectives ü Current plan ü Resource assignments ü Incident organization ü Resources ordered/needed ü Facilities established ü Status of communications ü Any constraints or limitations ü Incident potential Responsibilities of Incident Command ü Responsible for incident management and coordination; ü Initiate and maintain an incident position log; ü Establish and announce the Command Post location; ü Validate incident assessment and determine scale of Whatcom Counties response; ü Ensure all required internal and external notifications have been made; ü Assign personnel to appropriate Command and General staff positions;
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ü Establish incident operational periods and objectives; ü Implement sufficient resources to achieve the objectives for the operational period; ü Provide incident response guidance to tenant(s); ü Facilitate communications between the CP and the Whatcom County Operations/Coordination Center (if activated). Primary: Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management Deputy Director or designee Alternate: Agency or department head responsible for location where incident is occurring –or- authorized representative of the location where incident is occurring Applicable Checklists: Facility specific Plans and/or Checklists, Incident Command Position Checklist, External Notifications Policy
COMMAND STAFF In an Incident Command / Unified Command structure, command staff consists of various special purpose staff positions. The special staff positions are specifically designated, report directly to the Incident Commander and are assigned responsibility for key activities that are not a part of the general staff functional elements. Typically, three special staff positions are utilized during a major incident: Safety, Liaison, and Public Information. For the purposes of this plan a Legal Officer has been added to the command staff. The command staff positions may be activated as needed for Whatcom County incidents or to be assigned to multi-agency Unified Command structures.
Command
Safety Officer Information Officer
Legal Officer Liaison Officer
Figure 2 - Incident Command System Command Staff
LIAISON OFFICER The Liaison Officer is the initial point of contact for representatives of other governmental agencies, Non-Governmental Organizations and/or private entities. Representatives from responding agencies and organizations coordinate through the Liaison Officer. Assistants and personnel from other agencies or organizations may be assigned to the Liaison Officer to facilitate interagency coordination.
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In large responses, the Whatcom County Sheriff or the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management Deputy Director may assign an appropriate Liaison to a location to represent Whatcom Counties interests and to keep Whatcom County Government informed of incident developments. Liaison Officer Responsibilities: ü Oversee all liaison activities, including coordinating outside agency representatives assigned to the incident; ü Initiate and maintain an incident position log; ü Establish and maintain a central location for incoming agency representatives, providing workspace and support as needed; ü Ensure that position specific checklists, directives, situation reports and a copy of the current Incident Action Plan (IAP) is provided to agency representatives upon check-in; ü Maintain a contact roster of agency representatives not assigned to specific sections of the Incident Command System; ü In coordination with Incident Command and security, provide orientations for VIPs and other visitors to the Command Post and/or Coordination Center. Primary: Whatcom County Agency/Department Director Alternate: Appropriate Agency/Department Representative Applicable Checklists: Liaison Officer Checklist
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SAFETY OFFICER The safety of Whatcom County staff and personnel from responding agencies is a high priority objective. The Safety Officer advises Command on all matters relating to operational safety, including the health, safety and accountability of the emergency response personnel. A Safety Officer may not be necessary for every scene or in the Emergency Operation Center. Command, however, should strongly consider appointing a Safety Officer when an on-scene incident has or could develop health or safety hazards. Unless delegated, the scene safety remains the responsibility of the Command. Depending on situational hazards and/or responding agencies, the Safety Officer may be selected from operational Whatcom County staff that is most familiar with the health and safety hazards of the incident. Responding agencies often will designate a Safety Officer who may need technical assistance from knowledgeable Whatcom County staff. Safety Officer Responsibilities: ü Organize, assign tasks and supervise all personnel mobilized to support the safety functions; ü Implement procedures necessary to ensure ongoing assessment of hazardous environments; ü Implement measures to promote emergency responder safety and general safety of incident operations; ü Provide coordination of multi-agency safety efforts; ü Maintain awareness of active and developing situations and ensures the preparation and implementation of the incident response Safety Plan; ü Conduct safety briefs as necessary; and ü Stop and/or prevent unsafe acts during incident operations. Primary: Operational Whatcom County staff familiar with site-specific risks Alternate: Personnel from responding outside agencies Applicable Checklist: Safety Officer Checklist
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PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER The Public Information Officer serves two critical functions at the scene of an emergency: (1) to coordinate and control the interface with the media, the public and other agencies with incident-related information requirements and (2) to activate or represent Whatcom County in a Joint Information Center when activated. Public Information Officer Tasks and Responsibilities: ü Organize, assign tasks and supervise all personnel mobilized to support on-scene public information functions; ü Identify staffing needs for support of public information functions and direct mobilization or demobilization of personnel; ü Develop accurate and complete information on the incident’s cause, size, current situation, resources committed and other matters of general interest for both internal and external consumption; ü Monitor public information coverage of the situation; ü Activate or represent Whatcom County in an Joint Information Center as needed; ü Supervise the preparation for and conduct on-scene media briefing(s); and ü Supervise VIP tours of the incident site including providing for controlled/guided escorts. A Joint Information Center is a location where public information specialists and volunteers from local, state, federal jurisdictions, NGOs and/or private companies meet to coordinate the dissemination of emergency public information. The goal of the Joint Information Center is to provide accurate, timely, and coordinated information during an emergency to the media and the public. Some of the services provided are: ü News briefings and conferences to keep the media abreast of new developments. ü Background data to help news media. ü Spokespersons to elaborate on and explain the incident or event. ü An information center the public can contact regarding the emergency. Primary: Whatcom County Communications Director Alternate: Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management Deputy Director Applicable Checklists: Public Information Officer Checklist
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LEGAL OFFICER The appointment of a Legal Officer is not typical, however, in complex or extended incidents or in incidents or events that may have civil or criminal complications the addition of legal counsel to the command staff can be very useful. The Legal Officer may be assigned to advise Command on legal matters, such as emergency proclamations, the legality of evacuation orders, and legal rights and restrictions pertaining to media access. Legal Officer Responsibilities: ü Advise Command on related matters; ü Review and process emergency proclamations; ü Interpret laws and regulations as they pertain to achieving incident objectives; ü Ensure the protection of incident records and documents that may be needed for future legal actions; and ü Represent Whatcom County on all legal matters Primary: Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney Alternate: Private Council as Appointed by The Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney Applicable Checklists: Legal Compliance
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GENERAL STAFF The General Staff represents and is responsible for the functional aspects of the incident command structure. When fully activated the General Staff typically consists of the Operations, Planning, Logistics and Finance/Administration Sections. The General Staff positions may be activated as needed for Whatcom County incidents or to be assigned to multi-agency Unified Command structures. OPERATIONS SECTION The Operations Section is responsible for the management of all operations directly applicable to the primary mission. The Operations Section, led by the Operations Section Chief, activates and supervises organization elements in accordance with the Incident Action Plan (IAP) and directs its execution. This Section also directs the preparation of Unit operational plans, requests or releases resources, makes expedient changes to the IAP, as necessary, and reports such to Incident Command / Unified Command. A typical Operations Section organizational structure is shown below.
Operations Section
Staging
Branch Branch Branch
Division/Group Division/Group Division/Group
Individual Resources
Figure 3 - ICS Operations Branch
Operations Section Responsibilities: ü Manage all incident-related operational activities; ü Develop and implement appropriate tactical strategies to meet operational objectives and priorities; ü Establish an appropriate level of staffing and continuously monitor the effectiveness of the organization and modify as required;
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ü Ensure section objectives as stated in the IAP are accomplished; ü Keep Command informed of all significant issues relating to the section; ü Facilitate communications between on-scene Operations and the Whatcom County Operations/Coordination Center when activated; ü Interface with the Planning and Logistics Sections, and ü Within a Unified Command, represent Whatcom County in Operations Section discussions, decisions and actions; Primary: For site-specific incidents - the director of the impacted Agency or Department; For Whatcom County wide incidents: Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management Deputy Director Alternate: For site-specific incidents - the Manager of the impacted location; Applicable Checklists: Operation Section Checklists
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PLANNING SECTION The Planning Section is responsible for the collection, evaluation, and dissemination of tactical information pertaining to an incident. This section maintains information and intelligence on the current and predicted situation, as well as the status of logistics assigned to the incident. The Planning Section prepares and documents the Incident Action Plan, incident maps and gathers and disseminates information and critical intelligence. The Planning Section also maintains all records associated with the incident. The organizational structure of a fully implemented Planning Section is shown below in Figure 4:
Planning Section
Resources Unit
Situation Unit
Documentation Unit
Demobilization Unit
Technical Specialists
Figure 4 - ICS Planning Section
Planning Section Responsibilities: ü Collect, analyze and display situation information; ü Prepare periodic Situation Reports; ü Prepare and distribute the Incident Action Plan; ü Facilitate planning meetings; ü Plan for incident demobilization; ü Document and maintain incident files; ü Establish an appropriate level of staffing and continuously monitor the effectiveness of the organization and modify as required; ü Ensure section objectives as stated in the IAP are accomplished; and ü Keep Command informed of all significant issues relating to the section. Primary: Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management Deputy Director Alternate: To Be Identified Applicable Checklist: Planning Section Checklists
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LOGISTICS SECTION The Logistics Section is tasked with meeting incident support needs, including ordering resources through appropriate procurement authorities from off-incident locations. It also provides facilities, transportation, supplies, equipment maintenance and fueling, food service, communications, and medical services for incident personnel. The organizational structure of a fully implemented Logistics Section is shown below in Figure 5:
Logistics Section
Supply Unit Food Unit
Ground Support Unit Communications Unit
Facilities Unit Medical Unit
Figure 5 - ICS Logistics Section
Logistics Section Responsibilities: ü Ensure that incident logistical requirements are met. This includes providing communications, resource tracking, and the acquisition of equipment, supplies, personnel, facilities and transportation services; ü Arrange for food, lodging and other support services as required; ü Establish an appropriate level of staffing and continuously monitor the effectiveness of the organization and modify as required; ü Ensure section objectives as stated in the Incident Action Plan are accomplished; ü Closely coordinate with the Operation Section Chief to establish priorities for resource allocations; and ü Keep Command informed of all significant issues relating to the section. Primary: Whatcom County Public Works Alternate: Not Identified Applicable Checklists: Logistics Section Checklists
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FINANCE/ADMINISTRATION SECTION The Finance Section is responsible for addressing specific needs for financial, reimbursement and/or administrative services to support incident management activities. Not every incident will require a Finance Section. Such a single position can best be placed under planning as a technical specialist. In large, complex or extended incidents a Finance Section is an essential part of the organization. The organizational structure of a fully implemented Finance Section is shown below in Figure 6:
Finance Section
Compensation/Claims Unit Purchasing Unit
Recovery Unit Time Unit
Figure 6 - ICS Finance Section
Finance Section Responsibilities: ü Ensure financial records are maintained throughout the incident or event; ü Ensure all on-duty time is recorded for all response personnel; ü Ensure all on-duty time sheets are collected from supervisors; ü Ensure there is a continuum of the payroll process for all employees; ü Ensure all contracts are consistent with state requirements and Whatcom County policy; ü Process all travel and expense claims within a reasonable time; ü Provide administrative support to all sections as required; ü Ensure recovery documentation is accurately maintained during the response and ensure the information is submitted on appropriate forms for reimbursement from insurance or Federal Emergency Management Agency Public Damage Assistance; ü Establish an appropriate level of staffing and continuously monitor the effectiveness of the organization and modify as required; ü Ensure section objectives as stated in the Incident Action Plan are accomplished; and ü Keep Command informed of all significant issues relating to the section. Primary: Whatcom County Finance Director or designee Alternate: Whatcom County Human Resources Director Applicable Checklists: Finance Section Checklists
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RESPONSIBILITIES ASSIGNMENT OF GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES This section covers general emergency responsibilities of each Whatcom County department. Additional “department specific” responsibilities follow the general responsibilities. It is the policy of Whatcom County that the head of each department is responsible for the following: 1. Ensure the safety and protection of staff and clients (life/safety) 2. Secure buildings and facilities where the disruptive event occurred 3. Providing for the continuation of essential departmental services and functions after a disaster. 4. Providing for the identification and preservation of essential department records. 5. Ensuring appropriate notifications are made in accordance with this plan. 6. Providing damage assessments and situation reports. 7. Appointing a liaison to work with Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management in the development and maintenance of this plan. 8. Establishing 24-hour departmental contacts. 9. Developing the capability to continue operations in an emergency/disaster and to carry out the responsibilities outlined herein. 10. Developing procedures that address the following: 10.1. The department’s chain of command 10.2. Location of the departmental emergency operations and alternate locations including equipment and supplies 10.3. The resources needed to manage departmental emergency operations 10.4. The information needed to manage departmental emergency activities and how it will be obtained 10.5. Departmental capabilities and responsibilities 10.6. Departmental resources 10.7. How the department will coordinate with the Coordination Center 10.8. Ensuring that department staff is aware of the contents of this plan. It is the policy of Whatcom County that departments make staff available for appropriate training and emergency assignments, such as Emergency Operations/Coordination Center activities, documentation, damage assessment, and liaison with other agencies and organizations. All costs for these activities shall be the responsibility of the respective department. ASSIGNMENT OF DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
COUNTY COUNCIL 1. Exercise the powers provided to the Whatcom County Sheriff. 2. Develop strategic goals, objectives and policies.
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3. Ensure that sufficient administrative powers and duties have been delegated to the Whatcom County Sheriff to allow an effective operational response to disruptive events. 4. Consider ratifying the County Executive’s findings of emergencies. 5. Ensure the filling of County Council vacancies that may occur.
LEGAL COUNSEL 1. Responds on-scene or to the Operations/Coordination Center upon request of the Whatcom County Sheriff or Incident Commander. 2. Obtain briefings and situation reports and provide legal counsel as needed.
WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF 1. Exercise the delegation of administrative powers and duties as provided by applicable legislation. 2. Establish spending authorities and delegate administrative authorities. 3. Make and issue orders that shall have management authority on matters reasonably related to the protection of life and property as affected by disaster. 4. Make findings of emergency as needed and take or authorize the taking of immediate actions to address emergency situations. 5. Ensure the County Executive and County Council is kept informed of the situation and the actions being taken to address the situation. 6. Seek ratification of emergency findings. 7. Activate this plan and the Coordination Center as needed. 8. Maintain a written log of all actions taken to address the emergency. 9. Assume or delegate the position of Incident Commander to ensure effective management of incidents involving Whatcom County. 10. Seek local Proclamations of Emergency as may be needed to implement extraordinary spending authorities or to obtain state or federal assistance. 11. Participate in “After Action Reviews” and support identified corrective actions.
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR 1. Maintain up-to-date contact information for local and regional media outlets. 2. Assume the position of Public Information Officer for all incidents. 3. Establish or participate in a Joint Information Center as needed. 4. Obtain briefings on all emergencies. 5. Monitor media for accuracy and for any new information. 6. Establish rumor controls as needed. 7. Develop news releases for approval by the Whatcom County Sheriff, the County Executive or Incident Commander. 8. Update the Whatcom County website as needed.
PUBLIC WORKS 1. Is assigned to the Logistics and/or Operations Sections as needed. 2. Provides damage assessments as needed. 3. Performs emergency and planned repairs.
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4. Provides ground transportation support. 5. Is assigned to the Logistics Section, Facilities Unit. 6. Arranges for suitable facilities to meet incident requirements. 7. Facilitates the setting up and taking down of facilities as needed. 8. Assists in the setting up of the Coordination Center and Alternate Coordination Center as needed. 9. Assists community response and recovery by lending available assets as directed by the Whatcom County Sheriff or Incident Commander.
HUMAN RESOURCES 1. Ensure up-to-date personnel files for all staff members. 2. Maintain off site employee/emergency contact roster. 3. Establish/maintain systems for continued benefit(s) enrollment/cancelation. 4. As needed, provide liaison with all personnel and their families. 5. Participate in the Logistics Section Supply Unit to provide and coordinate incident staffing. 6. Maintain up-to-date lists of employment agencies. 7. Support HR staff that is processing worker compensation claims.
WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Develops and maintains Whatcom Counties Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. 2. Is responsible for training and exercise of the plan. 3. Acts as the Whatcom Counties primary liaison with outside emergency management agencies. 4. As needed, develops and maintains hazard specific contingency plans and site-specific security plans. 5. Employs pre-disruptive incident or event mitigation strategies to prevent or minimize incident or event impacts to tenant and Whatcom County properties. 6. Responsible for maintaining compliance with the National Incident Management System. 7. Responsible for maintaining a key accountability management program. 8. Activates this plan and the Coordination Center as needed 9. May serve in a variety of ICS positions. 10. Conducts “After-Action Reviews” to capture lessons learned and needed improvements following significant incidents. 11. Following Washington State rules/guidelines, establish and coordinate regular agency safety meetings.
FINANCE 1. Maintain all financial records and produce and maintain budget documents, financial reports. 2. Provides adequate internal controls to ensure financial accountability. 3. Assumes or delegates the position of Finance Chief as needed.
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4. Supervises Accounting, and Risk Administration. 5. Accounts for all employee incident time. 6. Provides a continuum of the payroll process for all employees, including the ability to pay via physical check. 7. Functions as Whatcom Counties Applicant Agent in seeking post-disaster federal public assistance for eligible response and recovery expenses.
INFORMATION SYSTEMS 1. Oversees Whatcom Counties computer, fiber optic and telecommunication networks. 2. Provides vital record protection for all digital information. 3. Provides technical assistance to activate the Coordination Center. 4. Is assigned to the Communications Unit within the Logistics Section. 5. Develops the incident Communications Plan. 6. Is Whatcom Counties Alternate Point-of-Contact for the Government Emergency Telecommunications System and Wireless Priority Service.
RISK MANAGER 1. Manages Whatcom Counties risk insurance program. 2. Receives Incident reports and monitors incidents for possible claims. 3. Processes claims when they occur. 4. Is assigned to the Finance Section to process claims and seek reimbursement for eligible expenses.
DEPARTMENT HEADS 1. Act as a Liaison Officer(s) to interface with outside agencies and jurisdictions. 2. May be assigned as a liaison to represent Whatcom County in any activated Emergency Operations Center in Whatcom County or in the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. 3. Develop or provide assistance in the development of grant applications as needed. 4. Employ pre-disaster mitigation strategies to prevent or minimize disaster impacts to tenant and Whatcom County properties. 5. Coordinate tenant interruption resources.
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT 1. Provides pre-disaster structural mitigation expertise. 2. May be assigned to either the Operations Section for direct operational response or the Planning Section as Technical Specialist. 3. Serves as Whatcom Counties Structural Evaluation Team (SET) to assess the safety of Whatcom County facilities and infrastructure following significant incidents or events. 4. Makes recommendations on occupancy based upon an evaluation of structural integrity. 5. Provides damages assessments as needed. 6. Provides floor plans, drawings, maps and aerial photographs as needed. 7. Working with project sponsors and outside contractors as needed, analyzes damages and designs, permits and constructs capital improvements and major repairs.
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8. Develops project cost estimates as needed for assistance or insurance claims. Oversees site cleanup, regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship within Whatcom Counties jurisdictional authority. 9. May be assigned to either the Operations Section for direct operational response or the Planning Section as Technical Specialist. 10. Conducts post-disaster assessments to ensure containment of hazardous substances.
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EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTIONS Whatcom County recognizes the concept of Emergency Support Functions as a tool in assessing impacts and this Plan includes Appendixes for the Emergency Support Functions #1 through #15. These are included to assist in interfacing with the State and National approaches to Emergency Management. All Whatcom County responses, and the management of disruptive events in the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center uses the Incident Command System that is National Incident Management System compliant and is organized accordingly. If needed, an Emergency Support Functions Desk can be opened in particular circumstances where a given Function is the overriding effort in the response. The Emergency Support Functions provides the structure for coordinating State and Federal interagency support for incident response. They are also mechanisms for grouping functions most frequently used to provide support to States and Local agencies for both declared disasters and emergencies under the Stafford Act and for non-Stafford Act incidents. Annex 10 specifies how each of the Emergency Support Functions, if used, will operate in Whatcom County. When used, the Emergency Support Functions will be used within the Situation Unit when the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center is activated.
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ANNEX 1 – WHATCOM COUNTY ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 1-1
ANNEX 2 – WHATCOM COUNTY ICS ORGANIZATION
Command Whatcom County Sheriff
Information Officer Liaison Officer Communications Departmental Director Directors
Legal Officer Prosecuting Attorney
Operations Section Planning Section Logistics Section Finance/Admin Departmental Whatcom County Public Works Section Director Sheriff's Office Division of Human Resources Emergency Finance Mangement
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 2-1
ANNEX 3 – EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Name Direct Emergency
Bellingham Fire Department / Medic One (360) 778-8400 911
Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center (360) 778-8800 911
Bellingham Office of Emergency Management (OEM) (360) 778-8440 Same
Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency (360) 676-6681 911 Management
Whatcom County Health Department (360) 778-6000 After Hours
(360) 715-2588
Whatcom County Medical Examiner (360) 738-4557
Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (360) 778-6600 911
Whatcom Transit Authority (360) 676-7433
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 3-1
ANNEX 4 - DEFINITIONS Adjutant General: Controls and directs state military operations. Applicant: The state or local government submitting a project application or request for direct federal assistance under Public Law 93-288 or on whose behalf the Governor's Authorized Representative takes action. American National Red Cross: The national organization of the Red Cross organized to undertake activities for the relief of persons suffering from disaster as stated in Section 3 of the Act of January 5, 1905, Chapter 23, as amended (36 USC 3) entitled "An Act to Incorporate the American National Red Cross." Common Program Control Broadcast Station: An element of the Emergency Broadcast System. A primary broadcast station in each operational (local) area assigned the responsibility for coordinating the operations for the broadcasting of the common programming for the operational area. Contractor: Any individual, partnership, corporation, agency or other entity (other than an organization engaged in the business of insurance), performing work by contract for the federal government, state, or a local agency. Damage Assessment: Estimation of damages made after a disaster has occurred which serves as a basis of the Governor's request to the President for a declaration of Emergency or Major Disaster. Disaster Analysis: The collection, reporting and analysis of disaster related damages to determine the impact of the damage and to facilitate emergency management of resources and services to the stricken area. Disaster Assistance Center (DAC): A center set up in the disaster area where individual disaster victims may receive information concerning available assistance, and apply for the programs for which they are eligible. The Disaster Assistance Center will house representatives of the federal, state, and local agencies that deal directly with the needs of the individual victim. Disaster Field Office: An office established jointly by the Coordinating Officer and State Coordinating Officer within the affected area for federal and state officials to coordinate disaster assistance and recovery efforts. Emergency: "Any hurricane, tornado, storm, flood, high water, wind-driven water, tidal wave, tsunami, earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide, mudslide, snowstorm, drought, fire, explosion, or other catastrophe which requires emergency assistance to save lives and protect public health and safety or to avert or lessen the threat of a major disaster." (PL 93-288). Emergency Alert System: Consists of broadcasting stations and interconnecting facilities that have been authorized by the Federal Communications Commission to operate in a controlled manner during emergencies.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 4-1
Emergency Protective Measures: Those efforts to protect life and property against anticipated and occurring effects of a disaster. These activities generally take place after disaster warning (if any) and throughout the incidence period. Emergency Management: The preparation for and the carrying out of all emergency functions, other than functions for which the military forces are responsible, to minimize injury and repair damage resulting from disasters caused by enemy attack, sabotage, or other hostile action, or by fire, flood, storm, earthquake, or other natural causes, and to provide support for search and rescue operations for persons and property in distress. Emergency Management Incident Numbers: Incident Numbers (formerly called Mission Numbers) issued by state and local emergency management organizations which cover the liability incurred by registered emergency workers within each affected county for the duration of legitimate emergency management activities/missions. Incident numbers may be broken down into further categories to aid in administration and documentation of incidents as follows: 1. Search and Rescue Number 2. Disaster Incident Number (from the same series as Search and Rescue) 3. Training Number Emergency Management Plans: Those plans prepared by federal, state, and local governments in advance and in anticipation of disasters for the purposes of assuring effective management and delivery of aid to disaster victims, and providing for disaster prevention, warning, emergency response, and recovery. Emergency Worker: Any person who is registered with a state or local emergency management organization and holds an identification card issued by the state or local emergency director for the purpose of engaging in authorized emergency management, or who is an employee of the State of Washington or any political subdivision thereof who is called upon to perform emergency tasks. Federal Agency: Any department, independent establishment, government corporation, or other agency of the executive branch of the Federal Government, including the United States Postal Service, but shall not include the American National Red Cross. Federal Assistance: Aid to disaster victims or state or local governments by federal agencies authorized to provide assistance under federal statutes. Federal Coordinating Officer: The person appointed by the President to coordinate federal assistance in an Emergency or a Major Disaster. Federal/State Agencies: The agreement signed by the Governor and the Regional Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, specifying the manner in which federal assistance will be made available for a Presidential Declaration of Emergency, Fire Suppression, or Major
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 4-2
Disaster, and containing terms and conditions consistent with applicable laws, executive orders, and regulations as the Administrator of FEMA may require. Governor: The Governor of this state, or in case of removal, death, resignation or inability to discharge the powers and duties of office, that person who may exercise the powers of governor pursuant to the Constitution and laws of this state relating to succession in office. Governor's Authorized Representative: That person named by the Governor in the Federal/State Agreement to execute on behalf of the state all necessary documents for disaster assistance following the declaration of an emergency or a major disaster, including certification of applications for public assistance. Grant Coordinating Officer: The state official assigned management responsibility for the Individual and Family Grant Program (IFG) after a Major Disaster declaration by the President. (If the program is requested by the Governor). Hostile Actions: Actions involving (1) attacks using conventional, biological, chemical, or nuclear weapons (2) Acts of domestic terrorism or sabotage (3) foreign embargo (4) any form of aggression that threatens the nation. Individual Assistance: Financial or other aid provided to private citizens to help alleviate hardship and suffering, and intended to facilitate resumption of their normal way of life prior to disaster. Incidence Period: For Emergencies or Major Disasters declared pursuant to PL 93-288, those days or parts thereof officially designated by the President or a representative as the dates upon which damages occurred. Joint Information Center: Made up of a group of Public Information Officers representing their respective unified command agencies. Responsible for disseminating information from unified command to the public. Jurisdiction: The geographical area over which a specific governing body exercises direct authority, e.g., State of Washington and/or its political subdivisions. Local Emergency: The duly proclaimed existence of conditions of a disaster or of extreme peril to the safety or health of persons and property within local jurisdictional boundaries. The emergency may be declared by a mayor or chairman of the board of county commissioners and is normally issued prior to requesting state and/or federal assistance. Local Government: Any county, city, village, town, district, or other political subdivision of the state, any Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization, and including any rural community or unincorporated town or village or any other public entity for which an application for assistance is made by the state or political subdivision thereof.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 4-3
Local Organization for Emergency Management: An organization created in accordance with the provisions of RCW 38.52 by state or local authorities to perform local emergency management functions. Major Disaster: "Any hurricane, tornado, storm, flood, high water, wind-driven water, tidal wave, tsunami, earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide, mudslide, snowstorm, drought, fire, explosion, or other catastrophe in any part of the United States which, in the determination of the President, causes damage of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant Major Disaster assistance under PL 93-288, above and beyond emergency management by the federal, government, to supplement the efforts and available resources of states, local governments, and disaster relief organizations in alleviating the damage, loss , hardship, or suffering caused thereby." (PL 93-288) Pinpoint Disaster: A disaster, not caused by negligence or malicious action, which as determined by the Commissioner of Education, Department of Health, Education and Welfare (HEW) has destroyed or seriously damaged school facilities but which is local in effect and has not been declared a Major Disaster by the President. Private Nonprofit Facility: Any educational, utility, emergency, medical, and custodial care buildings, structures or systems, including those for the aged or disabled and facilities on Indian reservations eligible for federal assistance under Section 402(b) of PL 93-288 as the result of a Major Disaster. Private Nonprofit Organizations: Any non-governmental agency or entity that has applied for, and currently has, in effect, from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, a ruling letter granting tax exemption under Section 501(c), (d), or (e) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, or satisfactory evidence from the state that the non-revenue producing organization or entity is a nonprofit one chartered with the Office of the Secretary of State, or the State Auditor prior to the onset of the incidence period. Public Assistance: Financial or other aid provided to political subdivisions and Indian tribes to facilitate restoration of public facilities to pre-disaster functions and capabilities. Public Facility: Any flood control, navigation, irrigation reclamation, public power, sewage treatment and collection, water supply and distribution, watershed development, airport facility, non-federal aid street, road, or highway, and any other public building, structure or system including those used exclusively for recreational purposes. Regional Director: Director of a Regional Office of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Standing Operating Procedure: A ready and continuous reference to those roles, relationships, and procedures within an organization which are used for the accomplishment of broad or specialized functions which augment the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. State Agency: Any department, office, commission, or agency of state government.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 4-4
State Area Command: The State Headquarters and Headquarters of the National Guard in each state, less elements required for the conduct of selective service activities, when ordered into active federal service. When mobilized, directs operational employment of all military forces made available for land defense or for military support to civil authorities. State Coordinating Officer: That person appointed by the Governor for the purpose of coordinated state and local disaster assistance efforts with those of the federal government. State of Emergency: An emergency proclaimed as such by the Governor pursuant to RCW 43.06.010. State Emergency Plan: As used in Section 201(b) of PL 93-288; that state plan which is designed specifically for state-level response to emergencies or major disasters and which sets forth actions to be taken by the state and local governments including those for implementing federal disaster assistance. In the State of Washington, it is known as the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. Execution of the State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan is prerequisite to the provision of federal assistance authorized by PL 93-288. Tsunami: A large surge of a body of water onto land caused by underwater displacement of earth. Most frequently associated with large underwater earthquakes and/or landslide. Utility: Structures or systems of any power, water storage, supply and distribution, sewage collection and treatment, telephone, transportation, or other similar public service. Vector Control: Control of diseases spread by insects, rodents, etc. Voluntary Organization: Any chartered or otherwise duly recognized tax-exempt, local, state, national organization or group which has provided or may provide services to the state, local governments, or individuals in a major disaster or emergency.
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ANNEX 5 – ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ALS Advanced Life Support ANRC/ARC American National Red Cross/American Red Cross ARES Amateur Radio Emergency Services BFD Bellingham Fire Department BLS Basic Life Support BPD Bellingham Police Department BSD Building Services Department (Bellingham) CAP Civil Air Patrol CAN Community Alert Network CB Citizens Band (Radio) CFR Code of Federal Regulations CISM Critical Incident Stress Management CMNET Comprehensive Emergency Management Network COE (US Army) Corps of Engineers DAC Disaster Assistance Center DEM Division of Emergency Management (State or local) DMCC Disaster Medical Control Center DNR Department of Natural Resources (State) DOF Department of Fisheries (State) DOT Department of Transportation (State or Federal) DSHS Department of Social and Health Services (State) DSR Damage Survey Report EAS Emergency Alert System EMD Emergency Management Division EMS Emergency Medical Services EMT Emergency Medical Technician EOC Emergency Operation Center EPA Environmental Protection Agency (Federal) EPI Emergency Public Information ESF Emergency Support Function FAA Federal Aviation Administration FBI Federal Bureau of Investigation FCC Federal Communications Commission FCO Federal Coordinating Officer FDAA Federal Disaster Assistance Administration FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency ICS Incident Command System IO Information Officer JIC Joint Information Center LEPC Local Emergency Planning Council MCI Mass Casualty Incident NAWAS National Warning System (Federal)
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NDTA National Defense Transportation Association NIMS National Incident Management System NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Federal) PDA Preliminary Damage Assessment RACES Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service RCW Revised Code of Washington SA Salvation Army SAR Search and Rescue SEOC State Emergency Operations Center SERP Specialized Emergency Response Program SOP Standing Operating Procedure USCG United States Coast Guard USGS United States Geological Survey WAC Washington Administrative Code WCCEMP Whatcom County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan WCSODEM Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management WDOE Washington Department of Ecology WISHA Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act WUECC Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center
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ANNEX 6 – WARNING INTRODUCTION & PURPOSE The purpose of this Annex is to provide guidance for the rapid alerting and warning of local officials/agencies and the public of an impending or occurring incident or event. The Annex augments Emergency Support Function #2 – Communication and Emergency Support Function #15 – External Affairs (Emergency Public Information) and provides information regarding how warnings are received and disseminated within Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities within the county. Emergency or disaster warnings may originate from any level of government. Most warnings are initiated by federal agencies, particularly the National Weather Service which issues watches, warnings, and advisories for incidents or events such as flooding, tsunami, and severe weather. In some cases, private industry or utilities may issue warnings via sirens or other methods for hazardous materials releases or problems with dams. Warning is a two-part function that requires government to maintain redundant systems for learning of the possibility or occurrence of a threat and alerting officials and the public and advising of actions to take to minimize harm to people. Routine day-to-day modes of communication will be utilized to the degree that they survive the emergency or disaster and afford adequate communication to affected local, state, and federal agencies. These modes of communication include commercial telephone, two-way radio systems, dedicated leased lines operated by government agencies and other modes available through private industry. The priority in establishing communications systems is life safety first, followed by the re- establishment of critical government functions and the protection of property and the environment. SITUATION Within Whatcom County, the What-Comm Communications Center serves as the primary warning point for Whatcom County. No single warning system exists in Whatcom County that will alert the public of all threatening emergency or disaster situations. Emergency situations will occur that require heavy use of current communications systems. Some communications systems may be damaged or destroyed as the result of a disaster. When the need for communications equipment is highest, there may be fewer resources available, requiring reprioritization or reallocation of working communication resources. Emergency or disaster warning may originate from any level of government or other sources. Some weather-related disasters are forecast prior to the incident. Weather warnings, watches, and advisories are issued by the National Weather Service in advance whenever possible.
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Floods and fires sometimes increase in magnitude over several hours or days, allowing time for warning and preparation. Other incidents such as earthquakes or hazardous materials releases offer no opportunity for warning. Puget Sound Energy operates and maintains a dam failure siren warning system to provide warning communities immediately downstream along the Skagit River. Monitoring and activation of this system is provided by Puget Sound Energy. ASSUMPTIONS There will be occasions when there is no time or mechanism to provide warning. Communication systems may be damaged, destroyed, or overwhelmed as the result of an emergency or disaster; the time-frames to repair these systems could be considerable due to disrupted transportation routes, the availability of replacement equipment and persons with technical expertise to affect the repairs. Emergency or alert information is transmitted by broadcasters at their discretion except for Emergency Alert System (EAS) Presidential Messages received from the National Control Point. Broadcasters may choose not to broadcast messages initiated by state and local agencies. Following initial warning, the Public Information Officer or the Joint Information Center will provide necessary follow-up information to the public. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS
INTER-JURISDICTIONAL WARNING The primary warning point within the state is the State Emergency Operations Center located at Camp Murray. The state also maintains an alternate warning point at the Washington State Patrol Communications Center at Yakima. What-Comm Communications Center serves as the primary warning point for Whatcom County. What-Comm is also the Public Safety Answering Point within Whatcom County and as such, operates on a 24-hour basis. The center provides routine emergency call receiving and dispatch services and maintains the following inter-jurisdictional warning systems: ü NAWAS (National Warning System) ü EAS (Emergency Alert System) Warning messages may be received by the Prospect Fire Dispatch Center (the secondary Public- Safety Answering Point for Whatcom County) from the Washington State Emergency Operations Center. These messages generally fall into the following two categories: 1. Warning messages pertaining to potential natural hazard incidents or events such as flooding or severe weather that could affect Whatcom County. 2. Informational messages pertaining to incidents or events that are occurring in other areas of the state.
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The Prospect Fire Dispatch Center may also receive information from private citizens or local emergency response agencies pertaining to an ongoing local incident or event that would require providing alert and warning information to local officials and agencies. Depending upon the incident or event, the Prospect Fire Dispatch Center, through the emergency management duty officer program, will provide alert and warning information to local officials/agencies according to their policies and procedures.
LOCAL PUBLIC WARNING COUNTY: DOOR-TO-DOOR: Local law enforcement and fire agencies (working either independently or cooperatively) can affect door-to-door warning of residents in a localized emergency. Because of the time and personnel needed, this system is not effective for large geographic areas or densely populated areas; this system could also place emergency personnel in danger. MOBILE SIRENS AND PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS: Law enforcement and fire agencies may utilize sirens and public address system loudspeakers affixed to apparatus to deliver warning information as they slowly drive through a neighborhood. This method is timelier than door-to-door notification but is limited to those persons that can hear to the public-address message. This system can also place emergency response personnel in danger. EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM (EAS): If needed (and upon authorization) emergency management duty officers can issue a warning to the public via the EAS. This system can provide rapid notification to large numbers of people throughout the county but only those persons listing to local radio or television will receive the warning message. NOAA WEATHER RADIO: As part of NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) the National Weather Service broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via this system. To receive information via this system, individuals must purchase a NOAA Weather Radio receiver for use in their home or business and properly program it to the appropriate channel. The system operates via radio signal and is not reliable for those areas of Whatcom County located easterly of State Route 9. PUGET SOUND ENERGY SIREN WARNING SYSTEM: As previously stated, Puget Sound Energy operates and maintains a dam failure siren warning system to provide warning for the Town of Concrete and the communities of Grassmere and Cape Horn located immediately downstream of the Town of Concrete along the Skagit River (in Skagit County). Monitoring and activation of this system is provided by Puget Sound Energy.
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ALERTSENSE NOTIFICATION SYSTEM: Whatcom County uses the AlertSense Notification System to disseminate recorded warning messages via telephone within Whatcom County. AlertSense can deliver messages to specific geographic areas or pre-established contact groups which will allow warning messages to be received by local officials as well as the public.
WARNINGS PROVIDED DURING ON-GOING INCIDENTS OR EVENTS As provided for in Emergency Support Function #15 – External Affairs, warning to the public may be provided as part of the release of emergency public information during on-going incidents or events (i.e. floods) occurring within Whatcom County. On occasion, small and/or localized on-going incidents or events may suddenly require the need for the delivery of warning information to the public. In such a case, the local On-Scene Incident Commander has the authority to issue such warnings. WARNING MESSAGE CONTENT If a public warning is required due to life-threatening conditions, the warning message should contain the following information: 1. The reason for the warning (hazard, incident or event). 2. Who is issuing the warning (mayor, fire chief, sheriff, other local official). 3. Specific boundaries of the warning area. 4. What actions the public needs to take (evacuate, shelter-in-place, other) to protect themselves from the hazard. 5. Where the public is to go (evacuation route and shelter location). 6. What the public should take with them (medications, warm clothing, and other items). RESPONSIBILITIES
WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Develop and maintain procedures, standard operating guidelines, and checklists in support of this Support Annex. 2. Maintain Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and Emergency Alert System equipment in an operational state of readiness. Develop and maintain procedures for the routine testing and emergency use of Emergency Alert System equipment and participate in Emergency Alert System North Puget Sound Local Area tests to insure Emergency Alert System operational readiness. 3. Activate the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, issue warnings, and activate Emergency Alert System as necessary. 4. Conduct tests and exercises of the county’s warning capabilities. Support local Public Information Office and Joint Information Center as necessary. 5. If needed, request additional resources through normal emergency management channels.
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WHAT- COMM COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 1. Develop policies, procedures, and checklists in support of this Support Annex. 2. Provide adequate staffing to perform routine dispatch services and warning functions. 3. Maintain operational readiness of all communications and warning equipment. 4. Participate in regular National Warning System tests.
LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES 1. Insure operational readiness of communications equipment. 2. Develop and maintain a close working relationship with the What-Comm Communications Center and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. 3. Develop policies, procedures, and checklists in support of this Support Annex. 4. As directed (and within agency capabilities) deliver warning to the public via door-to- door and mobile siren/public address system methods. 5. If needed, request additional resources through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management.
FIRE SERVICE AGENCIES 1. Insure operational readiness of communications equipment. 2. Develop and maintain a close working relationship with the What- Comm 911 Communications Center and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. 3. Develop policies, procedures, and checklists in support of this Support Annex. 4. As directed (and within agency capabilities) deliver warning to the public via door-to- door and mobile siren/public address system methods. 5. If needed, request additional resources through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management.
COUNTY/MUNICIPAL PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICERS 1. As directed, issue emergency public information in accordance with Emergency Support Function #15 – External Affairs (Emergency Public Information).
PUGET SOUND ENERGY 1. Maintain operational readiness of the dam failure siren warning system. 2. Develop and implement a public education program regarding this dam failure siren warning system. 3. Conduct monthly tests of this dam failure siren warning system. 4. Activate the dam failure siren warning system in a timely manner of an actual or imminent dam failure that could threaten the citizens. 5. If the dam failure siren warning system is activated, establish and maintain liaison with the What-Comm Communications Center and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management.
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ANNEX 7 - EVACUATION INTRODUCTION & PURPOSE The purpose of this Annex is to provide the emergency organization and coordination of the emergency evacuation of people from an area of high risk in the incident of an occurring or threatening emergency or incident within Whatcom County and/or the incorporated municipalities located within the county. The decision to evacuate persons may be made by one of the following individuals: County Commissioner(s) or Mayor; Sheriff/Police Chief, or highest-ranking command law enforcement officer having jurisdictional authority; Fire Chief or highest-ranking command fire officer having jurisdictional authority. This decision will be based upon the current and/or projected situation. This Annex addresses the emergency evacuation of people occurring separately or coincidentally with a significant natural, human-caused, or technological emergency or disaster. This Support Annex does not address evacuation and/or re-location of persons due to the treat of, or occurrence of, a nuclear attack. There is no law requiring a citizen to evacuate their home. Law Enforcement can only advise citizens of the prudence of evacuation. This Annex supports Emergency Support Function #1 and Emergency Support Function #6. SITUATION No single warning/evacuation system exists in Whatcom County or the incorporated municipalities located within the county that will alert the public of all threatening emergency or disaster situations. Transportation routes serving those areas of Whatcom County lying easterly of the City of Deming and along the Nooksack River are limited. Due to the topography of the area and their proximity to the Nooksack River, these routes are highly susceptible to landslides and are frequently inundated with during floods. A small passenger/vehicle ferry owned and operated by the Whatcom County Public Works Department provides transportation to Lummi Island. Transportation to other islands of Whatcom County is by private boat or aircraft only. Depending upon the situation and the severity of the incident, residents of these areas may not be able to evacuate in a timely manner and emergency response efforts to locate and remove these persons from the hazard area may be delayed due limited transportation routes and resources. The Cherry Point industrial area is home to two large oil refineries. Each of these fixed facilities holds large quantities of hazardous materials. In addition, several cold storage facilities hold large quantities of anhydrous ammonia and municipal water and sewer treatment facilities hold
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large quantities of chlorine. If there is a hazardous materials release from one of these or a similar facility, it may be unsafe for law enforcement, fire, and other first responders to enter the area to conduct an evacuation. Depending upon the type of hazardous material released, wind direction, and other factors, officials may need to carefully evaluate the situation to determine if evacuation OR sheltering- in- place would be the preferred method of protection for those persons located within the hazard area. Law Enforcement and Emergency Management officials may need to coordinate with the Washington State Patrol and the Washington State Department of Transportation to designate portions of State Routes as one-way routes to help facilitate the rapid evacuation and movement of persons from the hazard area. In addition, coordination with the Whatcom County Public Works Department may also be necessary to designate certain County Roads as one-way routes to help facilitate evacuation and movement activities. ASSUMPTIONS A significant disaster or emergency may threaten portions of the population of Whatcom County and/or portions of the population of the incorporated municipalities located within the county thereby necessitating those affected persons to be evacuated to avoid loss of life. A significant emergency or disaster may severely damage the transportation infrastructure. Most localized transportation systems and activities may be hampered by the damaged surface transportation infrastructure and disrupted communications. The damage sustained will determine the effectiveness and efficiency of evacuation as well as response and recovery efforts. Aircraft transportation for reconnaissance of disaster impacted areas may be essential. Disaster evacuation as well as response and recovery activities, which require the use of the transportation system, may be difficult to coordinate effectively. Gradual clearing of access routes will permit a sustained flow of emergency relief efforts. The immediate use of the transportation system for evacuation as well as response and recovery activities will most likely exceed the capabilities of Whatcom County and/or the incorporated municipalities located within the county thus requiring assistance from the state and federal government. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS Direction, control, and coordination of law enforcement personnel and apparatus within their respective jurisdictions shall be directed by the Sheriff/Police Chief or highest-ranking command law enforcement officer. Priority will be given to life saving.
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The Whatcom County Sheriff in consultation with the Incident Commanders, shall assign a supervisor or deputy with decision-making authority to act as the Evacuation Coordinator during emergencies/disasters of such magnitude that require evacuation coordination.
Verbal authorization to conduct an emergency evacuation may be given if an immediate evacuation is necessary to protect citizens and avoid loss of life. A written Evacuation Order will be prepared and signed by the County Executive or Mayor as soon thereafter as practical. Under emergency or disaster conditions, evacuation activities are the responsibility of the local law enforcement agency within the jurisdiction. Regular law enforcement activities such as traffic control and other law enforcement functions will remain the responsibility of the law enforcement agency concerned. During emergency or disaster situations, local law enforcement agencies will mobilize all available apparatus and personnel to conduct effective evacuation operations. Additional resources may be obtained through existing inter-local agreements. As part of these inter-local agreements, law enforcement units supplied by other agencies will operate under the incident command system of the host jurisdiction. Depending upon the availability of equipment and personnel, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office and/or the Whatcom County Search and Rescue Council will assist municipal law enforcement agencies with evacuation activities. County/municipal support to an evacuation will be coordinated through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. Under emergency or disaster conditions, evacuation activities are the responsibility of the local law enforcement agency within the jurisdiction. The evacuation of persons will be coordinated with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will coordinate with the Evacuation Coordinator regarding evacuation and movement issues as well as the American Red Cross regarding the establishment of emergency shelters. Law enforcement, fire, search and rescue, and other personnel conducting an evacuation shall make every effort to instruct evacuee’s as to the location of evacuation shelters. Evacuation instructions and information to the public will be disseminated using the media, door-to-door contacts, and mobile sirens/public address systems. Evacuation routes will be selected to provide for rapid, safe, and controlled movement away from the hazard area. Abandoned and/or disabled vehicles will be cleared from evacuation routes by whatever means necessary so as to not impede the movement of persons away from the hazard area by Public
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Works/Street Department, Law Enforcement, Fire, Parks and Recreation, or Search and Rescue personnel. The local law enforcement agency within the jurisdiction is responsible for providing security and other law enforcement related activities within those areas that have been evacuated. The Whatcom County Sheriff/Municipal Police Chief or highest ranking law enforcement command officer, in cooperation with the County Executive/Mayor(s), the Fire Chief or highest- ranking fire officer, and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, will determine when it is safe for evacuees to return to their homes and will establish re-entry priorities for evacuated areas. The Evacuation Coordinator will maintain a close working relationship with the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to coordinate evacuation issues and to specifically prioritize transportation resources to provide for the evacuation of physically challenged, elderly, and institutionalized persons. Whatcom County and/or the incorporated municipalities located within the county will provide emergency transportation, within their capability, during an emergency or disaster. If transportation requirements exceed the capabilities of the local jurisdiction, private sources shall be utilized as a secondary transportation means. All willing sources will be utilized to meet transportation needs. Priorities for the use of limited public transportation assets and opening transportation routes shall be established in cooperation with other Emergency Support Function’s such as Transportation, Public Works and Engineering, Firefighting, Search and Rescue, and Public Safety and Security. If use of specific routes or traffic control is necessary, road use permits will be issued for priority movement on routes that would otherwise be heavily congested. Regulation will be instituted only where and for as long as necessary. If local capabilities are exceeded in meeting transportation needs, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management may request assistance through normal emergency management channels. If a large disaster severely damages the local transportation network within Whatcom County, the Whatcom County Public Works Director will coordinate with all municipal public works/street/engineering departments to conduct an immediate post-disaster survey of the total road/street network. Under a Major Disaster Declaration by the President, FEMA may provide emergency public transportation services in a disaster affected area which has lost ready access to government offices, supply centers, stores, post offices, schools, and major employment centers, as to such other places as may be necessary to meet the emergency needs of the community.
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RESPONSIBILITIES
WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Coordinate the establishment and opening of emergency evacuation shelters with the American Red Cross. 2. Collect evacuation intelligence and advise government officials, as needed. 3. Through the Public Information Officer or the Joint Information Center, coordinate the use of radio and other media to provide evacuation instructions to the population and situational changes as they occur. 4. Assist with the coordination of law enforcement, fire, search and rescue, public works/street department(s), American Red Cross, and local transportation resources to support local emergency evacuation efforts. 5. Consider and make arrangements for the emergency evacuation of household pets and, depending upon the situation, livestock. 6. Request state and/or federal assistance if the emergency or disaster requires a response beyond the capabilities of local government and serve as liaison between local government and state/federal resources when the emergency or disaster requires a response beyond the capabilities of local government.
WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE 1. Upon request, report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center or appropriate municipal Emergency Operations Center to coordinate emergency evacuation and movement activities. 2. Conduct evacuations within unincorporated Whatcom County; provide security for evacuated areas, and traffic control as required. 3. If needed, assign a supervisor or deputy with decision-making authority to act as the Evacuation Coordinator to help insure coordination of evacuation efforts. 4. If needed, request assistance through normal emergency management channels. Coordinate a variety of evacuation issues such as the identification and designation of evacuation routes, the procurement of transportation resources, and designating reception shelters. 5. Provide for record keeping including the area(s) evacuated, evacuation/re-entry status of hazard areas, approximate numbers of persons evacuated, and the name/address of those persons refusing to evacuate the hazard area.
MUNICIPAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES 1. Conduct evacuations within jurisdictional boundaries, provide security for evacuated areas, and traffic control as required. 2. If needed, assign a supervisor or officer with decision-making authority to act as the Evacuation Coordinator to help insure coordination of evacuation efforts. 3. If needed, request assistance through normal emergency management channels. Coordinate a variety of evacuation issues such as the identification and designation of
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evacuation routes, the procurement of transportation resources, and designating reception shelters. 4. Provide for record keeping including the area(s) evacuated, evacuation/re-entry status of hazard areas, approximate numbers of persons evacuated, and the name/address of those persons refusing to evacuate the hazard area.
FIRE AGENCIES 1. Upon request, assist law enforcement agencies in conducting emergency evacuations.
WHATCOM COUNTY SEARCH AND RESCUE (SAR) COUNCIL 1. Upon request, assist law enforcement agencies in conducting emergency evacuations.
WHATCOM TRANSIT AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS 1. As requested by either the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and within agency capabilities, provide buses for emergency transportation for evacuation of the public and/or special populations as well as emergency worker transportation.
PUBLIC WORKS/STREET/ENGINEERING DEPARTMENTS 1. Upon request, conduct rapid damage assessment of transportation routes/bridges and provide information to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to assist in establishing emergency evacuation routes. 2. Open emergency evacuation routes as required. 3. Assist law enforcement by providing emergency signing, barricades and traffic control along emergency evacuation routes. 4. Supply fuel and refueling equipment/services to insure continuous operation of all emergency transportation vehicles.
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENTS 1. Assist in the transportation and movement of evacuees to emergency shelters.
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ANNEX 8 – DEFENSE SUPPORT TO CIVIL AUTHORITIES INTRODUCTION & PURPOSE The purpose of this Annex is to familiarize officials and emergency management staff with Washington State and Federal Government agencies and programs that may provide resource and logistical support to Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located within the county during an emergency or disaster. This Annex provides only a general overview of how support is provided by other governmental entities. For specific information on how support will be provided by state and federal agencies, their respective plans and procedures must be referenced. This Annex applies to all requests for military support originated by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management following a local declaration of emergency. There are provisions under state and federal law where the state or federal government could assume the direction and control of local level functions should there be a total breakdown of government. Given that adequate continuity of government planning is accomplished and procedures are followed in accordance with this plan, there should be no need for state or federal officials to assume the roles and responsibilities of local government. SITUATION Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities within the county have limited resources and may not be able to adequately respond to and/or recover from a significant incident or event. Local government recognizes there may be incidents or events that require the state or federal government to provide assistance to Whatcom County and/or the incorporated municipalities within the county during the response phase and recovery phase. ASSUMPTIONS If a wide spread disaster impacts a significant portion of the state or country, it may take a days or weeks before significant state and federal resources will arrive to assist in response and recovery efforts. This Annex assumes the military can provide a wide range of support to local governments in an emergency and that military support may be delayed until a state of emergency is declared by the Governor or there has been a presidential declaration CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS If Whatcom County cannot accommodate a resource request using locally available resources, a resource request will be made to the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division as part of routine resource management activities. It will be up to the state to
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determine the appropriate means of meeting the county's request, including the use of military assets. Military assistance is considered supplemental to local efforts and will not be requested unless and until applicable local responses have been, or will imminently be, exhausted. If needed, military assistance will be requested through the Washington Military Department, Emergency Management Division via normal emergency management channels. If a local agency or local official is aware of a specific military resource needed by Whatcom County or an incorporated municipality within the county, the specific resource may be requested as part of the request sent to the State Emergency Operations Center. When deployed to provide Military Support to Civil Authorities, military forces will work under the direction of local authority, but will retain their unit integrity and military chain of command. RESPONSIBILITIES WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ü Determine if and when a recommendation will be made to request military assistance. ü Prepare a request for military assistance; transmit all requests for military assistance to the State Emergency Operations Center. ü Identify appropriate staging area(s) and coordinate necessary logistical support, including common communications capabilities, with the responding military unit(s). ü Coordinate activities to ensure efficient use of requested assets.
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ANNEX 9 – DAMAGE ASSESSMENT INTRODUCTION & PURPOSE The purpose of this Annex is to provide for the effective coordination of all damage assessment activities within Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located within the county following an emergency or incident or event. This Annex applies to all activities within unincorporated Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located within the county relating to the assessing of damages resulting from natural, human-caused, or technological disasters. Damage assessment activities will be conducted following any incident or event where disaster intelligence and damage assessment information is needed. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will rely on the use of “windshield surveys” to conduct Initial Damage Assessment Surveys. All available county and municipal department/office resources will be utilized to perform and support a coordinated Initial Damage Assessment Survey of the area(s) affected. Initial Damage Assessment Survey information will be forwarded to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center in a timely manner. When the effect of an incident is so profound as to be clear that the county will qualify for federal disaster relief, a Preliminary Damage Assessment must be completed. The lead agency in preparing the Preliminary Damage Assessment will be the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management with support from the various county and municipal department/office staff as well as state and federal officials. SITUATION Due to a long history of floods that have occurred within Whatcom County, most county and municipal officials and department/office staff are familiar with floods and gathering damage assessment information. However, local officials and first responders are NOT familiar with gathering damage assessment information in a timely manner following a large earthquake or other type of incident or event that may cause significant and/or widespread damage to government infrastructure and private property. ASSUMPTIONS Emergencies and/or disasters will occur and may cause significant damage to government infrastructure and/or private property that will require a coordinated and timely damage assessment process. To identify response requirements of the emergency or disaster incident, there will be an immediate and continuous demand for damage assessment information.
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Initial reports may be fragmented and may provide an incomplete picture of the extent and magnitude of damage to the community. There may be a shortage of individuals qualified to assess the damage and local governmental agencies and resources will be quickly overwhelmed in a large magnitude earthquake or other type of incident or event that causes significant damage. The governments of Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located within the county as well as other political subdivisions will coordinate with each other to support damage assessment activities. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS
INITIAL DAMAGE ASSESSMENT Initial damage assessment will begin during or immediately following the disaster incident or event and continue until the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center has developed a picture of the types and magnitude of damage throughout the county. Information gathered in the initial damage assessment will be used to determine critical facility and transportation route status, prioritize initial response activities, and determine the immediate need for outside assistance. If a large-scale incident or event has caused severe and/or widespread damage to multiple buildings and/or structures, local Building Officials, building inspectors, engineers, and architects will be utilized to inspect and evaluate damaged buildings and structures. Initial damage assessment survey activities must be promptly carried out to provide the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center with disaster situation information. The goals of conducting an initial damage assessment survey are to determine: ü Boundaries of the disaster area and identify the jurisdictions impacted. ü Status of transportation routes and communications systems. ü Status of operating facilities and critical facilities. ü Status of key personnel. ü Hazard-specific information and access points to the disaster. ü Priorities for response and resource shortfalls. The overall goal of the initial or urgent damage assessment process is to develop disaster intelligence that will allow the governments of Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located within the county to respond in an organized and coordinated manner to: ü Save and protect the greatest number of people at risk. ü Protect private property as much as possible. ü Protect critical facilities and vital infrastructure. ü Minimize environmental damage.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 9-2
Every county/municipal department/office has a responsibility to quickly assess the incident or event's impacts on personnel, facilities, and capabilities. Certain departments/offices, especially those which have field personnel with radio communication capabilities, have an obligation to use those field resources to collect more general information about the impacts on the community. Initial reports may be provided by county/municipal agencies, county/municipal employees, the media, or the public. Damage reports from county/municipal agencies or employees should be as concise yet informative as possible and without delay. Reports of damage should not be delayed gathering detailed information. At a minimum, initial reports should contain a location, type of damage, magnitude of damage, whether personal injury or death is involved, and whether immediate assistance is needed to save lives. Initial damage assessment reports will be made to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center by the most expeditious means under the circumstances. Following the initial damage assessment, and as necessary, responders will establish response priorities directed towards attending to the needs of the public to provide maximum life-saving potential. If local resources are insufficient to respond to all urgent needs in a timely manner, additional resources will be requested through mutual-aid agreements or through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, will analyze the information received, develop countywide response priorities, and coordinate resources accordingly. The Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will also disseminate damage information to appropriate government officials, the media, and the public.
DETAILED DAMAGE ASSESSMENT A detailed damage assessment is needed to document the magnitude of private and public damage for planning recovery activities and to justify requests for state and federal assistance as well as meet the information needs of the public. The detailed damage assessment process will generally begin following the completion of response activities to protect life and property. Depending on the nature and magnitude of damage, the detailed assessment process could last for several weeks. The Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center may or may not be activated during the entire damage assessment process. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will establish a damage assessment hotline for gathering individual and business damage.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 9-3
Within agency capabilities, the American Red Cross may conduct damage assessment of residential and business structures in cooperation with local government. Individual and business damage assessment information will be forwarded to the state for the purpose of determining if Whatcom County qualifies for state and federal assistance for individuals, families and businesses. Depending on the nature and magnitude of the disaster, county and municipal governments may conduct structural inspections of privately owned structures and businesses to determine whether they are safe to enter or to occupy. If it appears that the county may meet the threshold for federal disaster assistance, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will complete a formal Preliminary Damage Assessment and Supplemental Justification. In addition, state and federal inspectors may tour the damaged areas to determine eligibility for assistance under the Stafford Act. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will coordinate public damage assessment activities. Upon request, county, municipal, special purpose districts, and other agencies and organizations will complete and submit Preliminary Damage Assessment forms to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management for forwarding to the state. County and/or municipal departments/offices will need to establish procedures and checklists and train staff based upon their individual area of responsibility to complete damage assessment activities and provide timely reports in pre-determined format to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will request damage assessment information from a variety of sources including local hospitals and health care centers, school districts and private schools. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will disseminate damage information to appropriate government officials, the media, and the public. RESPONSIBILITIES
WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ü Serve as lead agency for damage assessment. ü Develop internal procedures and protocols to receive, collect, analyze, and disseminate damage assessment information in a timely manner. ü Develop a profile of the affected area(s) including: o Major geographic features. o Population concentrations.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 9-4
o Critical facilities. o Access routes. o Available resources. ü If necessary, sector the affected area(s) to track and allocate personnel and manage information. Assess risk by sector to develop a composite picture related to: o Life safety. o Population density and demographics. o Critical facilities. o Access routes and lifelines. o Available resources. ü Relay all damage assessment information to the State Emergency Operations Center and the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Situation Unit. ü Disseminate damage assessment information via Incident Status Summaries (ICS Form 209) in accordance with established Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center procedures. ü Insure damage assessment information is disseminated to the public.
INTERLOCAL SIGNATORIES AND OTHER JURISDICTIONS ü Develop internal procedures and protocols to receive, collect, analyze, and disseminate damage assessment information in a timely manner. ü Assess risk by sector to develop a composite picture related to: o Life safety. o Population density and demographics. o Critical facilities. o Access routes and lifelines. o Available resources. ü Develop procedures to utilize available personnel to evaluate incident or event impacts and communicate damage assessment reports from the field. ü Coordinate department/office damage assessment information collection/reporting process with the appropriate municipal emergency operations/coordination center. ü Conduct bridge and road inspections. ü Relay all damage assessment information to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center.
WHATCOM COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT ü Develop procedures to utilize available personnel to evaluate incident or event impacts, and communicate damage assessment information from the field. ü Coordinate the sectoring and reporting process with other county departments. ü Coordinate the damage assessment information collection/reporting process with other county departments/offices and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 9-5
ü Conduct bridge and road inspections. ü Relay damage assessment reports to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center.
WHATCOM COUNTY DEPARTMENTS/OFFICES ü Develop procedures to utilize available personnel to evaluate incident or event impacts and communicate damage assessment reports from the field. ü Coordinate departmental/office damage assessment information collection/reporting process with other county departments/offices and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. ü Relay departmental status reports to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center.
WHATCOM TRANSIT ü Develop procedures to utilize available personnel to evaluate incident or event impacts and communicate damage assessment reports from the field. ü Coordinate agency damage assessment information collection/reporting process with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. ü Relay departmental status reports to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center.
WHATCOM COUNTY FIRE DISTRICTS ü Develop procedures to utilize available personnel to evaluate incident or event impacts and communicate damage assessment reports from the field. ü Coordinate agency damage assessment information collection/reporting process with local law enforcement and emergency medical services agencies. ü Relay departmental status reports to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center.
DIKING DISTRICTS ü Develop procedures to utilize available personnel to evaluate incident or event impacts and communicate damage assessment reports from the field. Coordinate agency damage assessment information collection/reporting process with the Whatcom County Public Works Department or the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 9-6
ü Relay departmental status reports to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center.
WHATCOM COUNTY EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ü Develop procedures to utilize available personnel to evaluate incident or event impacts and communicate damage assessment reports from the field. ü Coordinate agency damage assessment information collection/reporting process with local fire and law enforcement agencies. ü Relay departmental status reports to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 9-7
ANNEX 10 – EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTIONS Whatcom Counties Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan is based on NIMS and ICS which is also the management structure for all emergency response agencies, small cities, and special districts in Whatcom County. At the same time, Whatcom County recognizes that there may be times that agencies will need to collaborate to address specific issues and areas of concern. These are recognized by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division as Emergency Support Functions.
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EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #1 TRANSPORATION
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Public Works Department ü Municipal Public Works/Street/Engineering Departments
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom Transit (WTA) ü Law Enforcement Agencies ü Fire Service Agencies ü Port District ü School Districts ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Washington State Patrol ü Washington State Department of Transporation
PURPOSE The purpose of this Emergency Support Function is to provide the emergency organization for the coordination and the efficient use of all available transportation resources used to support emergency and disaster activities within Whatcom County.
SCOPE This Emergency Support Function addresses the establishment of priorities and/or allocation of transportation resources, the processing of transportation requests in cooperation with other Emergency Support Function’s, and appropriate coordination with neighboring local jurisdictions as well as various state and federal agencies.
POLICIES The County Executive/Mayors have the authority to declare an emergency. This Emergency Support Function is applicable when a disaster has been declared or when a decision has been made within the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center that movement of passengers or cargo is required or anticipated. In accordance with RCW 38.52.110 (1), the County Executive and Mayors are directed to utilize the services, equipment, supplies, and facilities of existing departments, offices, and agencies of the state, political subdivisions, and all other municipal corporations thereof including but not limited to districts and quasi municipal corporations organized under the laws of the state of Washington to the maximum extent practicable, and the officers and personnel of such departments, offices, and agencies are directed to cooperate with and extend such services and facilities upon request notwithstanding any other provision of law.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-2
Primary emergency transportation responsibilities will be coordinated by the public works agency within the jurisdiction the incident or event occurs. Emergency transportation responsibilities will be coordinated by the Whatcom County Public Works Department during incident or events that affect multiple jurisdictions.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS If a large disaster severely damages the local transportation network within Whatcom County. The Whatcom County Public Works Director will coordinate with municipalities and the Washington State Department of Transportation to conduct an immediate post-disaster survey of transportation routes, including bridges. Where local transportation systems have been severely disabled, jurisdictions will act to restore transportation systems and equipment on a priority basis to provide life safety, protection of property, restoration of essential government infrastructure and services, limiting environmental damage. Priorities for the use of limited public transportation assets and opening transportation routes shall be established in coordination with other Emergency Support Function’s. Public Works/Street Department personnel will clear abandoned and/or disabled vehicles from transportation routes by whatever means necessary to expedite movement of persons away from the hazard area. Law Enforcement and Fire Service will assist, within capabilities. Routes for the movement of persons will be selected to provide for rapid, safe, and controlled movement away from the hazard area. Support for the movement of persons will be coordinated through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Representatives from Whatcom Transit Authority and Whatcom County Public Works Department will coordinate with each other regarding people-movement issues, including those persons with special needs. If local capabilities are exceeded in meeting transportation needs, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management may request assistance from the state and/or federal government. If use of specific routes or traffic control is necessary, road use permits will be issued for priority movement on routes that would otherwise be heavily congested. Regulation will be instituted where essential, for as long as necessary. The Port of Bellingham should be prepared to utilize their facilities for a variety of disaster- related activities including the movement of large numbers of injured persons out of the area and the arrival of large quantities of resources arriving by air and/or water.
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RESPONSIBILITIES WHATCOM COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 1. Upon request, send a representative to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center or appropriate municipal emergency operations center to coordinate transportation related response and recovery missions. 9. Assess the damage to transportation routes and facilities and provide information to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center or appropriate municipal emergency operations center as to the status of the transportation system. 10. Assist law enforcement by providing signage, barricades, and traffic control, as needed. 11. Coordinate and provide for emergency fuel sources to insure continuous operation of all emergency/government vehicles mobilized in support of response and recovery activities. MUNICIPAL PUBLIC WORKS/STREET/ENGINEERING DEPARTMENTS 1. Provide damage assessment information to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. 2. As needed, assist in the removal of wreckage and debris from roads and bridges to permit emergency vehicle movement. 3. Assist law enforcement by providing emergency signing, barricades and traffic control as required. 4. Supply fuel and refueling equipment and services to insure continuous operation of all emergency/government vehicles mobilized in support of response and recovery activities. WHATCOM TRANSIT AUTHORITY (WTA) 1. Upon the request of the Emergency Management Director or designee, provide buses and drivers to assist with the movement of persons including special-needs populations and the transporting of emergency workers. 2. Upon request, send a representative to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center or appropriate municipal emergency operations center to coordinate use of agency resources for the movement of people. 3. Provide for record keeping of mileage and other transportation expenses incurred during emergency/disaster conditions. WHATCOM COUNTY FIRE DISTRICTS 1. Depending upon the availability of resources, assist law enforcement in providing traffic control and assist other agencies with the emergency movement of people. 2. As needed, assist in the removal of wreckage and debris from roads and bridges to permit emergency vehicle movement. PORT OF BELLINGHAM 1. If required, utilize all available port facilities including airports, wharfs, docks, and warehouses to support disaster-related activities including the movement of large numbers of injured persons out of the area and the arrival of large quantities of resources arriving by air and/or water.
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SCHOOL DISTRICTS 1. Depending upon the availability of resources and as directed by the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, provide buses and drivers to assist with the emergency movement of people (including special-needs populations) and the transporting of emergency workers. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Collect evacuation, movement, and transportation intelligence and advise local officials. 2. If needed, assist with the coordination of law enforcement, fire, search and rescue, public works/street departments, and local transportation resources to support movement, and transportation efforts. 3. Request state and federal assistance if the emergency or disaster exceeds local capabilities.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-5
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #2 COMMUNICATIONS
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü What-Comm Communications Center ü Whatcom County Department of Information Technology
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Auxiliary Communications Service ü Whatcom ARES/RACES (Amateur Radio Emergency Services/Radio Amateurs Civil Emergency Services)
PURPOSE The purpose of this Emergency Support Function is to provide the emergency organization for the coordination and efficient use of local governmental communications capability (including alternate communications capabilities) to meet the operational requirements of Whatcom County and the participating municipalities in responding to and recovering from emergencies or disasters.
SCOPE This Emergency Support Function discusses the use of various communications systems for emergency management functions during times of disaster. Those systems include email, internet, voice, data, radio, NAWAS (National Warning System), AlertSense and Amateur Radio.
POLICIES Routine day-to-day modes of communication will be utilized to the degree that they survive an emergency or disaster and afford adequate communication to affected local, state, and federal agencies. These modes of communication include email, commercial telephone, (cellular & land line) two-way radio systems, internet, dedicated leased lines operated by government agencies and other modes available through private industry. Alternate communication systems (including amateur radio and access to internet as well as voice over internet protocol telephone via direct independent satellite linkage) will be used when normal communication systems are inadequate or not operational.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS Routine emergency call receiving and dispatch services are provided by the What- Comm Communications Center which serves the entirety of Whatcom County. Whatcom County Department of Information Technology operates and maintains robust computer and internet communications systems within Whatcom County. The system links county offices
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-6 and departments as well as local law enforcement agencies within the county via email. The system has built-in redundancy to minimize disruptions to government functions. Reliable communications are necessary for day-to-day government functions, Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center operations, warning of impending incident or events, response and recovery efforts, search and rescue missions, and coordination with other organizations. Jurisdictions and agencies within Whatcom County will focus on coordinating lifesaving activities concurrent with re-establishing control of the affected area. Jurisdictions and agencies, in conjunction with the telecommunications industry, will accomplish as much restoration and reconstruction of communications capabilities as resources and the situation permits. Conditions following the incident or event will require careful consideration of areas or sites that may require communications support. Incident Command Posts, staging areas, and shelter locations may all require additional communications capability to carry out their mission. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is in the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center with the City of Bellingham Office of Emergency Management and is supported by both City of Bellingham and Whatcom County IT staff. Communication modes available at the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center include: email, telephones, cellular telephones, fax machine, radio-activated pagers, telephone- linked pagers, local television, AM/FM radio, data link with the State Emergency Operations Center via modem, and data links with other Whatcom County government offices. Communications with the State Emergency Operations Center and other county and city Emergency Centers is available via CEMNET (Comprehensive Emergency Management Network) radio. Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center two-way radio systems provide supplemental direction and control communication links to coordinate and monitor local response and recovery efforts. Alternate communication is provided by Whatcom ARES/RACES volunteers coordinated through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management by the Whatcom County Emergency Coordinator Radio Officer who is appointed by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. Whatcom ARES/RACES operates a radio station within the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Radio systems in the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center include UHF, VHF, 800 MHz, 2 meter, HF, low band, and packet. Whatcom ARES/RACES also operates and maintains a mobile communications vehicle to provide supplemental radio communication with field units. Additionally, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management operates and maintains auxiliary communications resources including a mobile command post vehicle and a mobile satellite communications vehicle that can augment stationary communications assets.
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When necessary, Whatcom County will request communication assistance from the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and other available sources.
RESPONSIBILITIES WHAT-COMM COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 1. Provide adequate staffing to perform fire, emergency medical, and law enforcement dispatch services. 2. Maintain operational readiness of all communications equipment. 3. Insure necessary NAWAS and ACCESS messages are relayed to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and appropriate law, fire, and medical field units. 4. Maintain liaison with the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and advise of communications capabilities and limitations. 5. Request additional communication resources through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. WHATCOM COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 1. Insure operational readiness and security of the county computer system. Insure operational readiness of Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center computer resources. 2. Conduct an expedient evaluation of the county computer system to determine capability to support response and recovery activities. 3. Provide adequate and trained personnel to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center in support of this Emergency Support Function. 4. Request additional resources through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Appoint the Whatcom County Emergency Coordinator Radio Officer who coordinates supplemental and alternate Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center communications using government two-way radio channels and Whatcom ARES/RACES volunteers. 2. Maintain liaison with Whatcom County Emergency Coordinator Radio Officer and What- Comm Communications Center. 3. Maintain operational readiness of Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center communications equipment. 4. Participate in weekly CEMNET radio checks to insure alternate communications capability with the State Emergency Operations Center. 5. Conduct tests and exercises of the county’s communication and warning capabilities. Advise the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division of communication capabilities and/or limitations. 6. Coordinate with appropriate local agencies to insure operational readiness and appropriate emergency use of communications systems. 7. Maintain Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center in an operational state of readiness.
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8. Develop and maintain Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center procedures, standard operating guidelines, and checklists in support of this Emergency Support Function. 9. Coordinate requests for and use of supplemental communications, if necessary. 10. Coordinate with Whatcom County Emergency Coordinator Radio Officer to provide alternate communications at locations where needed. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE AUXILLIARY COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE 1. Serve as communications representative in the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. 2. Maintain liaison with Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management and, if needed, the What-Comm Communications Center. 3. Insure operational readiness of Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center communications equipment. 4. Provide training for Whatcom ARES/RACES volunteers in emergency radio communication operation and procedures. 5. Insure CEMNET and other messages are relayed to Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and the What-Comm Communications Center. 6. Upon request, provide alternate communications for American Red Cross established mass care facilities, hospitals, schools, and other locations during emergencies or disasters. 7. Advise the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management of communications capabilities and limitations and request additional communication resources as needed.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-9
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #3 PUBLIC WORKS AND ENGINEERING
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Public Works Department ü Municipal Public Works/Street/Engineering Departments
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Municipal Sewer and Wastewater Treatment Facilities ü Municipal Water Treatment Facilities ü Whatcom County Planning Department and Permit Center ü Municipal Planning/Building Departments ü Whatcom County Public Health Department
PURPOSE To provide for the coordination of public works and engineering support to assist Whatcom County, the incorporated municipalities within the County, and special purpose districts in meeting needs related to response and recovery. To provide for the demolition of unsafe structures, debris and wreckage clearance, temporary repair of essential facilities, and the inspection of facilities for structural condition and safety.
SCOPE Public works and engineering support includes technical advice and evaluations, engineering services, construction management and inspection, emergency contracting, emergency repair and operation of water and wastewater facilities, and providing emergency power to critical facilities. Activities within the scope of this Emergency Support Function include: 1. Participation in public works and engineering mitigation and preparedness activities. 2. Performing emergency clearance of debris to allow for reconnaissance of the damaged area and access to emergency vehicles, equipment, and personnel. 3. Removal of debris from roads and bridges throughout the response and recovery phases of an incident or event. 4. Temporary repair or replacement of emergency access routes including streets, roads, bridges, airfields, and any other facilities necessary to conduct response and recovery activities. 5. Emergency restoration of critical public facilities including water and wastewater treatment facilities. 6. Providing backup power to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and other critical facilities. 7. Emergency contracting for public works and public health safety.
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8. Emergency demolition or stabilization of damaged structures identified by Whatcom County, the municipalities, and special districts as immediate hazards to the public health and safety, or to facilitate lifesaving operations. 9. Technical assistance including the structural inspection of private residences, commercial buildings and structures, as resources permit. 10. Conduct Initial Damage Assessment Surveys and prepare Preliminary Damage Assessment reports. 11. Support other Emergency Support Function’s (as needed) to accomplish response and recovery activities.
POLICIES Individual jurisdictions will provide public works and engineering services to the lands and facilities under their jurisdiction. Services such as debris clearance or the removal of dead animals from private property may be authorized by the County Executive/Mayors, the Director of the Whatcom County Health Department, or the Whatcom County Public Health Officer. Permitting fees and normal inspection procedures will stay in effect following a disaster unless otherwise directed by the County Executive/Mayor(s). Solid waste fees and requirements will stay in effect following a disaster unless otherwise directed by the County Executive
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS The Whatcom County Public Works Department and municipal street/engineering departments will support public works and engineering related response and recovery activities. The Whatcom County Public Works Director or designee shall coordinate with individual jurisdiction Public Works Directors or Engineers and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management to ensure that public works and engineering services are delivered in a timely and organized manner. The Whatcom County Public Works Director or designee will serve as the primary coordinator of public works and engineering services at the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Municipal Public Works Directors or Engineers will serve as the primary coordinator of public works and engineering services within their respective jurisdictional emergency operations center. Depending upon the availability of equipment and personnel, and upon the approval of the County Executive, the Whatcom County Public Works Department will assist with municipal public works and engineering activities as needed to support life, health and safety. Upon receiving authorization from the Whatcom County Public Works Director, or designee, Whatcom County Public Works Department Division Managers will alert personnel and begin emergency operations consistent with operating procedures.
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Debris clearance and emergency road repairs will be prioritized to support immediate life- safety activities. Mobilization of public works and engineering personnel and equipment will be determined by the location and magnitude of the disaster. Public works and engineering activities may need to be coordinated with other Emergency Support Function Annexes and Support Annexes. If needed, the Whatcom County Public Works Director, or designee, shall coordinate with the Whatcom County Health Department to provide testing of public water systems and supplies to insure potability. The Whatcom County Public Works Director will coordinate with the Washington State Department of Transportation to assess the status state routes that may be used for emergency routes. If needed, the Whatcom County Public Works Director, or designee, will coordinate with private business and industry to assist with public works and engineering activities by providing expertise, equipment, and personnel to supplement governmental resources. Engineering support not available through local governmental and private sources will be requested from state and/or federal agencies through normal emergency management channels. If the disaster warrants a state or federal response, local officials will need to maintain liaison with state and federal officials to prioritize tasks.
RESPONSIBILITIES COUNTY/MUNICIPAL PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTORS 1. Develop and establish Policies and Standard Operating Guidelines and train staff for disaster operations and update as necessary. 2. Provide jurisdictional direction, control, and coordination of emergency public works and engineering services. Assign operational tasks to division managers/supervisors and issue instructions as needed to insure the coordinated and effective deployment of personnel and equipment. 3. Coordinate with other local jurisdictions and special purpose districts to assess damage, prioritize tasks, and allocate resources to ensure that services are delivered in a timely and organized manner. 4. Provide for the maintenance of communications equipment used to support emergency public works and engineering operations. 5. Provide notification to all appropriate Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center representatives regarding all road/street closures and, if appropriate, the operational status of water, sewer and wastewater treatment facilities. 6. Provide the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center with current disaster analysis information
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COUNTY/MUNICIPAL PUBLIC WORKS/ENGINEERING AGENCIES 1. Conduct structural inspection of roads/streets, bridges, culverts, and other structures to determine damage and conditions posing a threat to human safety. 2. Perform removal of debris and/or wreckage to permit vehicular access and movement. Perform temporary repairs of lightly damaged roads, streets, bridges, and other structures. Provide and erect signs, barricades and cones as necessary. 3. Assist with traffic control and heavy rescue activities as requested. 4. Notify the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center of all road/street closures. Assist water treatment, sewer, and wastewater treatment divisions with inspection of facilities and structures to determine damage, operational ability, and potential threats to public health. MUNICIPAL WATER TREATMENT, SEWER AND WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITIES 1. Provide inspection of treatment, storage, and distribution systems/facilities/structures to determine damage and operational status. 2. If possible, perform temporary repairs of water treatment, storage, and distribution facilities and structures as well as and sewer and wastewater treatment facilities and structures. 3. Notify the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center of damage and operational status of water treatment, storage, and distribution facilities as well as sewer, and wastewater treatment facilities. 4. Continue to manage and operate facilities and structures with capabilities. WHATCOM COUNTY PUBLIC UTILITY DISTRICT NO.1 1. Provide inspection of water treatment, storage, and distribution facilities/structures for damage and to evaluate the operational status and safety of all systems. 2. If possible, perform temporary repairs of water treatment, storage, and distribution facilities and structures. 3. Notify the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center of all damage to, and the operational status of, water treatment, storage, and distribution facilities and structures. 4. Continue to manage and operate facilities and structures with capabilities. COUNTY/MUNICIPAL PLANNING/BUILDING DEPARTMENTS 1. Develop and establish Policies and Standard Operating Guidelines and train staff for disaster operations and update as necessary. 2. Provide for overall direction, control, and coordination of post-incident safety evaluations of structures within jurisdictional limits. Assign operational tasks to team members and issue instructions as necessary to insure the coordinated and effective deployment of personnel and equipment.
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3. Depending upon the type, severity, and timing of the incident or event, establish priorities for the inspection of critical government facilities, shelters, schools, hospitals, and nursing homes. 4. Coordinate building evaluation activities in cooperation with other local jurisdictions to assess damage, prioritize tasks, and allocate resources. 5. Provide communication resources to support emergency operations. 6. Identify and mark structures that have restricted occupancy or are unsafe to occupy. Provide the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center with disaster analysis information. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE AUXILLIARY COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE 1. Serve as communications representative in the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. 1. Maintain liaison with Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management and, if needed, the What-Comm Communications Center. 2. Insure operational readiness of Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center communications equipment. 3. Provide training for Whatcom ARES/RACES volunteers in emergency radio communication operation and procedures. 4. Insure CEMNET and other messages are relayed to Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and the What-Comm Communications Center. 5. Upon request, provide alternate communications for American Red Cross established mass care facilities, hospitals, schools, and other locations during emergencies or disasters. 6. Advise the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management of communications capabilities and limitations and request additional communication resources as needed. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Upon request, assist with coordination of resources to support public works and engineering services, including heavy rescue. 2. If needed, request state and federal assistance to support disaster operations. 3. Serve as liaison between local government and state and federal resources, as required.
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EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #4 FIREFIGHTING
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Fire Districts ü Municipal Fire Departments
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü United States Forest Service ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü What-Comm Communications Center ü Washington State Patrol Fire Marshal ü Washington State Department of Natural Resources
PURPOSE To provide for the coordination of fire services operations within Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located within the county to effectively use all available firefighting apparatus and personnel; to control the dispatching of such equipment and personnel to localities where most needed, and provide for effective operations at the scene during an emergency or disaster.
SCOPE This Emergency Support Function addresses all firefighting activities occurring during an emergency or disaster. The scope of this Emergency Support Function does not address routine day-to-day firefighting activities. This Emergency Support Function does not address details regarding regional and statewide fire services resource mobilization. Procedures for regional and statewide fire services resource mobilization are contained in the following plans: The Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan, the Northwest Region Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan, and the Whatcom County Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan..
POLICIES During emergency or disaster situations, local fire agencies will mobilize all available apparatus and personnel required to adequately deal with the situation. Additional resources may be obtained through existing mutual-aid agreements. If the size and/or severity of the emergency or disaster overwhelm local and mutual-aid resources, outside fire services resources will be requested through regional and state fire mobilization. Direction, control, and coordination of department/district fire personnel and apparatus within their respective jurisdictions shall be directed by the Fire Chief or highest ranking command officer.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-15
Priority shall be given to saving lives and protecting property, in that order.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS During emergencies or disasters, fire service agencies may be called upon to perform a wide range of functions including, but not limited to: fire suppression activities, response to hazardous materials incidents, warning and evacuation, confined space rescue, emergency medical care, emergency transportation of injured persons to hospitals or other emergency care facilities, emergency communications, control of emergency/disaster site access, emergency traffic control, damage assessment, county and/or municipal emergency operations center staffing, and liaison with other fire service agencies. Each fire service agency maintains its own policies/procedures specific to their jurisdiction. The Whatcom Emergency Communications (E 9-1-1) Center is the focal point for disseminating alert and warning information to all local fire service agencies. Upon receiving alert and warning information, fire service agencies are responsible for notifying on duty staff to alert them of the situation and, if necessary, request that off-duty personnel report for duty according to agency policies and procedures. If needed, and upon the request of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, one or more fire service representatives may be requested to report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to assist in coordinating firefighting response and recovery activities. Alert notifications to fire service personnel to report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will be conducted by the Whatcom Emergency Communications (9-1-1) Center upon the request of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. Upon request, municipal fire departments are responsible for sending a fire service representative to their municipal Emergency Operations Center or to an established command post to coordinate fire service response and recovery activities within the jurisdiction. Emergency response of fire services will be dependent on the type and severity of the emergency or disaster and the availability of personnel and equipment. Emergency fire services provided by municipal fire departments and rural fire districts will be requested on a mission basis to allow for continuity of operations consistent with their procedures and policies. All fire service disaster emergency response activities shall be organized under the NIMS (National Incident Management System) Incident Command System and/or the Unified Command System. If, due to the size and severity of the emergency or disaster, local fire agencies are overwhelmed, additional resources will be requested through existing mutual-aid agreements and regional or state fire mobilization. Mobilization of regional and/or state fire services resources shall be requested through local, regional, and state emergency management channels.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-16
If, due to the size and severity of the emergency or disaster, regional and/or state fire mobilization is enacted, the fire service Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center representatives will maintain liaison with the Northwest Region Fire Coordinator to coordinate local, regional, and state fire service resources. Public works agencies will assist in providing and coordinating the use of heavy equipment used to perform debris clearance activities and otherwise support fire service response and recovery activities. All fire agencies within Whatcom County operate on a 24-hour basis. Each agency has two-way radio communication links between their respective mobile units and the What-Comm Communications Center. Some mobile units are also equipped with cellular telephone capability.
RESPONSIBILITIES MUNICIPAL FIRE DEPARTMENTS/RURAL FIRE DISTRICTS 1. Protect life and property by prevention, suppression, and control of fire; provide rescue services and emergency medical care and response to hazardous materials incidents. 2. Assist law enforcement in providing warning and evacuation by door-to-door notification and/or use of mobile sirens and public address systems as needed. Also assist law enforcement in providing traffic control as needed and if personnel are available. 3. Provide the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management with damage assessment reports to the maximum extent possible. 4. Responsibilities of fire service in the response to a hazardous materials incident may include the establishment of safety/isolation zones, notification of proper agencies, and assisting law enforcement with public notification, evacuation and perimeter control depending upon the availability of personnel and equipment. 5. If the magnitude of the emergency or disaster warrants, and depending upon the availability of personnel, provide one or more representatives to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to coordinate fire service response and recovery activities. 6. In a large-scale emergency or disaster, fire service personnel may be placed on alert status in accordance with agency policies and procedures. Volunteer firefighters may be encouraged to contact their employers and request to be released from their normal work shift. WHAT-COMM COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 1. Provide emergency call receiving and dispatching and alert and warning notification to all fire service agencies. 2. At the request of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, notify fire service agencies regarding the activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center (or appropriate municipal emergency operations center) and the need for fire service representatives to report to coordinate firefighting response and recovery activities.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-17
COUNTY/MUNICIPAL PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTORS 1. Develop and establish Policies and Standard Operating Guidelines and train staff for disaster operations and update as necessary. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Upon request, assist in coordinating fire service requests for regional and state fire mobilization resources as well as federal disaster-related assets and services.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-18
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #5 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Municipal Fire Departments
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Administrative Services ü Whatcom County Budget and Finance ü Department of Information Technology ü Whatcom County Public Health Department ü Whatcom County Public Works Department ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office ü Whatcom Auxiliary Communication Service
PURPOSE The purpose of this Emergency Support Function is to describe the roles and responsibilities of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management as well as the organization of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. This Emergency Support Function provides information as to the collection, documentation, and distribution of information and data to and from the emergency operations center and describes the coordination of activities within the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center including: incident management, incident planning, use of resources, and emergency financial management.
SCOPE This Emergency Support Function is applicable to all Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management personnel as well as Whatcom County departments/offices, volunteers, and other individuals who staff the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center during incidents or events.
POLICIES The County Executive/Mayors are responsible, by law, for emergency management operations within their respective jurisdictions but function together under this plan as the Whatcom Emergency Management Council. The Director of Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is responsible to the Whatcom Emergency Management Council for carrying out the emergency management program for Whatcom County and the member municipalities.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-19
The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management provides and coordinates the emergency management program for unincorporated Whatcom County as well as the cities and towns of Blaine, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, Nooksack, and Sumas. The emergency management program within Whatcom County includes the five phases of emergency management (prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery) as identified in the National Response Framework. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management shares office space with, and works cooperatively with, the City of Bellingham’s Office of Emergency Management. Personnel work cooperatively with the Bellingham Police and Fire Departments to staff a 24- hour Duty Officer position and to provide emergency management functions within the county during emergency incidents or events.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is the focal point of emergency management within Whatcom County utilizing the National Preparedness System mission areas (prevention, protection, mitigation, response and recovery). The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management maintains a 24-Hour Duty Officer system through the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and is jointly operated with the City of Bellingham Office of Emergency Management. The Duty Officer system provides support and assistance to local emergency response agencies, as needed. The Duty Officer is the primary after-hours contact for receiving alert and warning information from a variety of sources and, upon the request of responding agency, initiates emergency management response actions (within department suggested operating guidelines and/or capabilities) to assist an On-Scene Incident Commander. Duty Officer Manuals are maintained by each Duty Officer and are to be quickly accessible during duty shifts. These manuals offer guidance and contain resource materials to aid the Duty Officer in performing their roles and responsibilities. In addition, vehicles assigned to Duty Officers provide communication and safety equipment for Duty Officer use while on assignment. Depending on the situation and the nature of the request, it may be possible for the Duty Officer to manage requests from their workplace, or from home or another transitory location if after normal working hours. Typical Duty Officer roles and responsibilities include: 1. Be available to receive and (if necessary) act on warnings and advisories from the State and/or the Whatcom Emergency Communications (9-1-1) Center; may assist local jurisdictions in coordinating requests for emergency assistance. 2. Make official notifications internal and external to the county, including the acquisition of a state mission number from the Washington State Alert & Warning Center Duty Officer.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-20
3. Coordinate the use of community warning systems, to include the coordination and dissemination of area-wide warning messages via the Emergency Alert System. (AlertSense) 4. Coordinate interdepartmental and jurisdictional situational awareness. 5. Coordinate with county and/or local municipal agencies and other available local or regional sources to obtain special technical expertise, skills, equipment, services, or other technical assets. 6. If needed, take necessary actions to initiate activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. 7. Notify and brief the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management as soon as possible if the condition is such that the County Executive or local Mayors should be advised of the situation. 8. Properly document missions/actions and file necessary reports in a timely manner.Upon request. The Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center is organized in accordance with the National Incident Management System (NIMS). The Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center organizational structure utilizes Command Staff and General Staff positions for incident management purposes. Upon activation, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will be normally staffed on a 24-hour basis utilizing two 12-hour shifts. Shift change will occur at 0700 Hours and 1900 Hours daily. Disaster information will be obtained through all means available, including but not limited to damage and situation reports from various county/municipal agencies, special purpose districts, citizens, other jurisdictions, and the media. Information will be analyzed, evaluated, and made available to appropriate Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center staff to increase overall situational awareness, aid in establishing and implementing a response strategy, and assist in determining resource needs and the allocation of limited resources. Methods of information dissemination will be through displays, Incident Status Summaries (ICS Form 209), Internet postings, email, briefings, and news releases. All Incident Status Summaries (ICS Form 209) generated by the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will be reviewed by the Planning Section Chief and approved by the Unified Commanders or their designee’s prior to release. All public information documents will be reviewed by the Whatcom County Public Information Officer (or designee) and approved by the Unified Commanders (or designee’s) prior to release. Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center briefings will be held at least twice daily (preferably at shift change) and will be conducted by the Planning Section Chief or the Situation Unit Leader. Depending upon the size, scope, and/or complexity of the emergency or disaster, elected and appointed officials will activate the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to provide proper direction and control and aid in overall management or coordination of response
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-21 and recovery activities. Proper incident management is necessary to provide for the effective supervision, authority, and coordination of emergency management activities during the response phase and recovery phase of emergency incidents or events. Upon activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, a National Incident Management System - compliant command structure will be formed to manage the incident. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management utilizes an incident management structure within the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center that is compliant with the National Incident Management System. This incident management system consists of the Unified Command positions as established by Whatcom County Executive Order 2005-02, dated May 16, 2006. The Planning Section will be staffed by a Situation Unit Leader, Resource Unit Leader, and Documentation Unit Leader. Additional incident management positions may be filled (as needed) depending upon the size and/or scope of the incident. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is a coordinating agency and is not involved in direct oversight and supervision of incident response operations. Therefore, and Operations section is not typically staffed within the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. If needed, qualified agency representatives may be requested to report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to assist Communications, and Staff and General Staff in managing the incident. Depending upon the size and/or scope of the incident or event Unified Command may request direct agency representation from an Agency Representative assigned to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. The primary purpose of the Agency Representative function is to assure a seamless interface exists between parties so that any anticipated or actual request for outside assistance can be readily referred for action. Whenever federal involvement occurs in a Presidential Declaration of Disaster or an Incident of National Significance, there may be Agency Representatives exchanged with the Joint Field Office, once it is established. During incidents or events, planning is coordinated and conducted by the Planning Section within the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Planning Section staffing levels are determined by the size and/or scope of the incident consistent with the National Incident Management System, including span of control. Resources not available directly to the On-Scene Incident Commanders will be requested, ordered, and allocated through the command structure within the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. The ordering of outside resources shall be coordinated between the Logistics Section Chief and the Finance/Administration Section Chief and must be approved by the Unified Commanders prior to ordering. In some cases, volunteers will become an important human resource. Staging areas may be designated and persons wishing to volunteer will be directed as to where to report for registration and assignments. Volunteer emergency workers shall be registered using procedures established by Chapter 118.04 WAC Emergency Worker Standards.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-22
The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management may utilize volunteers from various organizations to augment the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and otherwise assist with response and/or recovery activities. INCIDENT FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Emergency expenditures are not normally integrated into the budgeting process of local governments. Nevertheless, Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities recognize that when an incidents or event occurs local government may be required to expend unbudgeted funds to respond to and recover from incidents or events. To minimize the impacts of the disaster as well as maximize the potential for federal reimbursement of disaster expenses, local governments will make a sincere effort to follow jurisdictional procurement procedures and will strive to adhere to procurement standards in the Federal Regulations (44 CFR 13.36). Whatcom County Public Works creates an On-Call Emergency Vendor List to assist the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center personnel in obtaining required materials, supplies, and services during a declared emergency by the Whatcom County Executive. Upon creating this list, Whatcom County Public Works personnel pre-screened vendors to help insure proper licenses, Unified Business Identifier Numbers, insurance coverage, and other required documents. This process increases the ability of Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center personnel in obtaining materials, supplies, and services in a timely manner while at the same time lessen the County's liability in contracting with unqualified vendors. Each local governmental agency will assign personnel to be responsible for documentation of disaster activities and costs and to utilize effective administrative methods to keep accurate detailed records distinguishing disaster operational activities and expenditures from day to day activities and expenditures. Records will be kept in such a manner that disaster related expenditures and obligations of the municipality can be readily differentiated from general programs and activities. Complete and accurate records are necessary to document requests for assistance and to provide for reimbursement. CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS/CONTINUITY OF GOVERNMENT The purpose of Continuity of Operations/Continuity of Government planning is to ensure that the capability exists to continue essential government functions throughout any potential emergency. Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities of Blaine, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, Nooksack, and Sumas are each separately responsible for insuring Continuity of Operations/Continuity of Government within their respective jurisdictions. MITIGATION ACTIVITIES Primary Agencies:
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-23
1. Develop and maintain agency procedures and checklists in support of this Emergency Support Function. 2. Develop a Suggested Operation Guideline for activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. 3. Insure operational readiness of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center facility and equipment. 4. Insure Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center staff are trained to perform their assigned duties. 5. Design and conduct an annual Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center table- top exercise for Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center staff. Support Agencies: 1. Develop and maintain agency procedures and checklists in support of this Emergency Support Function. 2. Ensure agency staff are trained to perform assigned duties. 3. Encourage agency staff to participate in Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center trainings, drills, and exercises. RESPONSE ACTIVITIES Primary Agencies: 1. If needed, activate and staff the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to provide incident management capabilities in support of disaster response and recovery activities. 2. If needed, assist the appropriate executive body (County Executive, Mayor, City Council) in declaring an emergency. 3. Upon activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, develop and transmit an Incident Status Summary (ICS Form 209) at least once daily to the State Emergency Operations Center Duty Officer. 4. Coordinate and conduct Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Command Staff and General Staff functions in support of disaster response activities. 5. Request additional resources via mutual-aid agreements and/or through normal emergency management channels. 6. Maintain accurate expense records.
Support Agencies: 1. If needed, provide staff/services to support activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and otherwise assist in emergency/disaster response and recovery activities. 2. Maintain accurate expense records. L. RECOVERY ACTIVITIES Primary and Support Agencies: 1. Insure road closed status, public information, and other incident related information functions remain in place for as long as needed during the recovery phase.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-24
2. Conduct individual and public damage assessment. 3. Request individual and/or public assistance available under the Stafford Act. 4. Coordinate disaster recovery activities with the Washington Military Department, Emergency Management Division and/or FEMA. 5. Coordinate repairs and/or replacement of damaged facilities and/or equipment. 6. Replenish Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center supplies and insure operational readiness. 7. Demobilize resources and return to normal activities.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-25
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #6 - MASS CARE, EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE, EMERGENCY HOUSING, AND HUMAN SERVICES
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü American Red Cross
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Whatcom County Public Health Department Whatcom County Human Services ü County/Municipal Parks and Recreation Departments ü Salvation Army ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Auxiliary Communication Service ü Public Works ü Law Enforcement ü Fire Services ü School Districts—Public and Private ü Volunteer Organizations ü Congregate Care Facilities ü Convalescent Care, Day Care Centers
PURPOSE The purpose of this Emergency Support Function is to provide for the effective coordination and delivery of mass care, emergency assistance, housing and human services to residents of unincorporated Whatcom County as well as residents of the incorporated municipalities within Whatcom County.
SCOPE Mass Care: Within Whatcom County, mass care is provided by the American Red Cross with coordination provided by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Mass care services include sheltering for people, emergency feeding and relief supplies, first aid, and disaster welfare information. The American Red Cross independently provides mass care to disaster victims as part of a broad program of disaster relief, as outlined in charter provisions enacted by the United States Congress, Act of January 5, 1905, and the Disaster Relief Act of 1974 (P.L. 93-288, as amended by the Stafford Act of 2000). The ARC assumes primary agency responsibility, as assigned by Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, to the mass care response of state and local jurisdictions, and the efforts of other voluntary agencies, including ARC relief operations.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-26
Emergency Assistance: Emergency assistance services include benefit claims assistance, identification and postal services, financial services and other services provided by various state, federal, and other agencies that can be delivered through Disaster Recovery Centers, once established. Emergency Housing (Sheltering): The provision of emergency shelter for victims includes the use of designated shelter sites in existing structures, creation of temporary facilities such as tent cities, or the temporary construction of shelters, and use of similar facilities outside the affected area, should evacuation be necessary. Emergency housing is typically provided by federal agencies during the recovery phase of a disaster to provide provisional assistance for short and long term needs of disaster victims. Human Services: Human services may include related recovery efforts such as counseling, and other mental health services.
POLICIES This Emergency Support Function does not supersede American Red Cross response and relief activities. American Red Cross relief operations will be performed in accordance with established American Red Cross Disaster Services Policies, Regulations and Procedures. The American Red Cross will provide staff, supplies, and shelters as disaster conditions dictate and resources allow, in accordance with the Disaster Relief Act of 1974 (P.L. 93-288, as amended by the Stafford Act). The American Red Cross (ARC) policy is to provide emergency shelter for 72 hours to those who have a need. After 72 hours, only those persons who can demonstrate that they have a permanent place of residence by providing a rent receipt, utility bill, etc., and that their domicile is not habitable will continue to receive ARC assistance. It is the policy of the governments of Whatcom County as well as the incorporated municipalities of Blaine, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, Nooksack, and Sumas to provide the emergency management organization and resources to minimize the loss of life, protect public property, and minimize damage to the environment within their respective jurisdictions to the maximum extent possible depending on the disaster conditions. A collaborative response by public, tribal, private and nonprofit organizations will greatly benefit and facilitate mass care services throughout Whatcom County. This Emergency Support Function will be implemented based on the impacts of major natural or technological incidents or events occurring within Whatcom County with coordination and support provided by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-27
If the incident or event impacts a large portion of the county, a large percentage of the population of the county, or if local resources are limited, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will make decisions regarding the location and activation of shelters. Such decisions will be based upon available resources, maximum shelter populations and condition of impacted areas served. Appropriate federal, state, and local jurisdiction, voluntary agency, and private sector resources will be used, as available. Mass care shelters are temporary in nature and are designed for people displaced because of emergency incidents or disasters. All mass care and shelter services will attempt (but cannot guarantee) to meet current requirements for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Services will be provided without regard to economic status, race, religion, political, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or other affiliation. According to the ADA, service animals are extensions of their owners and have the same access to public transportation and sheltering as their owners always. The National Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act of 2006 (H.R. 3854-PETS) requires local and state emergency preparedness authorities include plans for pets and service animals in disaster plans.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS During small local emergencies when the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center is not activated, the American Red Cross will provide shelter and mass care services coordinated through the appropriate chapter headquarters, as appropriate to their operational capacity. Upon activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, the placement, coordination, operations, and support of shelters will be a cooperative effort between the American Red Cross and the Unified Commanders within the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Shelter requests will be prioritized and coordinated by the American Red Cross and the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center staff in close consultation with the Unified Commanders within the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is responsible for notifying the Mount Baker Chapter of the American Red Cross that an incident or event has occurred that requires staffing the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center or a municipal emergency operations center. Appropriate federal, state, and local agencies, voluntary agencies, and private sector resources will be used, as available, to provide mass care to victims of an emergency or disaster. Mass care will normally be carried out during and immediately after an emergency or disaster until individual services can be provided. Mass care services are usually provided on a short-
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-28 term basis of one to seven days. However, depending upon the nature and severity of the incident or event, it may be necessary to provide mass care services on a long-term basis. The primary means of communications between mass care facilities and the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center shall be commercial telephone. Alternate communications systems such as amateur radio will be used if normal systems are overwhelmed, damaged, or destroyed. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management and the American Red Cross will share, as appropriate, and coordinate all lists of victims and disaster assistance inquiries, and will cooperatively release disaster information to the media through the Red Cross and Whatcom County Public Information Officer or the Joint Information Center.
RESPONSIBILITIES AMERICAN RED CROSS 1. Recruit and train volunteer staff in emergency mass care procedures and operations. Establish agreements with schools, churches, governmental jurisdictions and/or agencies, and other organizations, prior to an incident or event, for the use of buildings and/or facilities as emergency mass care shelters. Update shelter agreements on an annual basis and provide a listing of all shelter sites to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. 2. Coordinate with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management in the development of local mass care programs and capabilities. 3. Upon request, provide mobile food service to emergency workers and victims. 4. Provide mass care operations in accordance with the American Red Cross Disaster Services 5. Regulations and Procedures as needed. 6. Upon request, report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center or the appropriate municipal emergency operations center to coordinate mass care operations. 7. Coordinate the release and dissemination of public information regarding mass care services with the Whatcom County Public Information Officer, the Joint Information Center (if established) or the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. 8. If needed, request Regional, State, and/or National American Red Cross resources. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Coordinate the activities of various local agencies charged in local plans for the provision of emergency mass care. 2. Inform the American Red Cross of emergency evacuations, the area to be evacuated, the approximate number of evacuees and coordinate with the American Red Cross to determine what mass care facilities should be used. 3. Upon request, assist the American Red Cross in coordinating and providing logistical support to mass care operations. 4. Coordinate the release and dissemination of public information regarding mass care, emergency assistance, emergency housing, and human services with the Whatcom County Public Information Officer or the Joint Information Center.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-29
5. Coordinate with and maintain liaison with various municipal, county and state agencies, churches, institutions, commercial facilities, and volunteer organizations to provide mass care resources, facility support, and mutual aid. WHATCOM COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT 1. Provide for the coordination of health and sanitation services at mass care sites and/or facilities. 12. Assist the American Red Cross in procuring resources. COUNTY/MUNICIPAL PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENTS 1. Identify county/municipal properties that could serve as temporary mass care tent cities. Coordinate with the American Red Cross and/or the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management 2. regarding the establishment of mass care tent cities located on county-owned or municipal- owned property. SALVATION ARMY 1. Upon request and within agency capabilities, assist the American Red Cross in providing mass care services within the community. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE AUXILIARY COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE 1. If needed, provide alternate communication links between established mass care sites and the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. PUBLIC WORKS AGENCIES 1. Provide signage and barricades at shelters or feeding stations, as requested. LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES 1. Provide security and traffic control at shelters or feeding stations, as requested. MUNICIPAL FIRE DEPARTMENTS AND WHATCOM COUNTY FIRE DISTRICTS 1. Address life safety issues at shelters or feeding stations, as requested. SCHOOL DISTRICTS 1. By agreement with the ARC, provide school facilities for shelter and feeding. VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATIONS 1. Protect life and property by prevention, suppression, and control of fire; provide rescue services and emergency medical care and response to hazardous materials incidents. 2. Assist law enforcement in providing warning and evacuation by door-to-door notification and/or use of mobile sirens and public address systems as needed. Also assist law enforcement in providing traffic control as needed and if personnel are available. CONGREGATE CARE FACILITIES, ASSISTED LIVING, RETIREMENT, CONVALESENT CARE, DAY CARE CENTERS 1. Provide assistance in mass care, shelter and feeding, as appropriate.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-30
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #7 – LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT AND RESOURCE SUPPORT
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Administrative Services ü Municipal Budget/Finance Departments ü Whatcom County Facilities Department ü Whatcom County Public Works Department ü Municipal Public Works/Engineering Departments ü Whatcom County Parks and Recreation ü Municipal Parks and Recreation Departments ü Whatcom Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
PURPOSE The purpose of this Emergency Support Function is to describe how logistical management and resource support functions will be carried out following an incident or event, or the threat of an incident or event.
SCOPE This Emergency Support Function involves coordinating and providing services, personnel, equipment, commodities, and facilities and volunteers to support county and municipal organizations during the immediate response to an incident or event and to subsequent response and recovery activities.
POLICIES GENERAL The priorities for providing resources shall be for the protection of life, property, and the environment as well as for providing continuity of government services. Municipalities and special purpose districts shall officially proclaim an emergency or disaster and expend available resources prior to seeking resource assistance through the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Equipment, supplies, and personnel needed should be sought from other Whatcom County departments/offices, municipal agencies, and other local sources first. Resource needs beyond the capacity of governmental jurisdictions and/or agencies within Whatcom County will be requested from the State Emergency Operations Center by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-31
Requests for federal resources will be forwarded through the State Emergency Operations Center by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. Incidents or Events involving multiple locations or the occurrence of multiple incidents occurring simultaneously may require the establishment of an Area Command or a Unified Command within the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Upon establishment of an Area or Unified Command resources will be requested, ordered, and allocated through the established command structure. Resource requests must be approved by the Unified Commanders prior to ordering. The Resource Unit Leader will track resources assigned to the incident and the status of these resources. The Resource Unit Leader will provide resource status information to the Planning Section Chief, the Situation Unit Leader, the Finance/Administration Section Chief, and the Logistics Section Chief to assist in determining if resources should be re-assigned or demobilized. Reassignment and demobilization of resources must be approved by the Unified Commanders. During a flood, certain resources may be requested directly from the United States Army Corps of Engineers via the Agency Representative assigned to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Each county and municipal department/office that is assigned responsibilities in this emergency management plan is responsible for developing and maintaining lists of equipment and service providers necessary to support department/office responsibilities and functions during disaster operations. FINANCIAL To minimize the impacts of the disaster as well as maximize the potential for federal reimbursement of disaster expenses, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center personnel should make a sincere effort to follow jurisdictional procurement procedures and will strive to adhere to procurement standards in the Federal Regulations (44 CFR 13.36). Logistics and Resource personnel will coordinate resource ordering and procurement with the Finance/Administration Section Chief and will utilize the On-Call Emergency Vendor List in obtaining required materials, supplies, and services during a declared emergency by the Board of County Commissioners.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS During a disaster, or the threat of a disaster, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will be activated to coordinate the response of county and/or municipal government and to support On-Scene Incident Commanders with incident evaluation, planning, public information, and resource management.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-32
The resources of Whatcom County and the municipalities within the county will be utilized to the extent practicable and in accordance with state law. If local governmental resources are insufficient, additional resources available through mutual-aid or in-place contracts should be utilized prior to requesting resources through the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Services, equipment and supplies necessary to respond to a disaster may be obtained through private sources. It will be the responsibility of the county or the appropriate municipal Budget/Finance Department to issue purchase orders, vouchers, warrants or temporary contract agreements as required at the time of the disaster. When appropriate, pre-disaster agreements may be initiated to facilitate an efficient operation. Resource requests made to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center must be made by recognized field command personnel. All requests for outside resources as well as the allocation and distribution of these resources shall be coordinated through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Once allocated, resources will be managed by the responsible department(s) or agencies to which they are assigned. Incidents or events involving multiple locations or the occurrence of multiple incidents occurring simultaneously may require the establishment of an Area Command or Unified Command structure within the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. The ordering of resources shall be coordinated between the Logistics Section Chief, the Resource Unit Leader, and the Finance/Administration Section Chief.. The Resource Unit Leader will track resources assigned to the incident and the status of these resources. The Resource Unit Leader will provide resource status information to the Planning Section Chief, the Situation Unit Leader, the Finance/Administration Section Chief, and the Logistics Section Chief to assist in determining if resources should be re-assigned or demobilized. Some resources may be held in reserve to meet unexpected needs requiring an immediate response by first responders to save lives and/or protect public property. Resources held in reserve will be considered utilized. When necessary, staging areas for incoming resources will be utilized. Each staging area shall have a Manager responsible for assigning resources as designated through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. If needed, law enforcement agencies will provide security and traffic control at staging areas.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-33
RESPONSIBILITIES WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Maintain the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center with appropriate supplies, equipment, and staff availability. Maintain liaison with support agencies, the business community, volunteer organizations and the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division. 2. Request resources and logistical support from the State Emergency Operations Center. 3. Coordinate requests for resources from outside the area, other than mutual-aid and contract service providers. 4. Manage spontaneous volunteers and unsolicited donations. 5. Encourage county/municipal officials to develop resource management procedures. Develop and maintain a communications/notification process for the rapid contact of key Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center personnel. 6. Develop a procedure for field personnel to register emergency workers at a disaster site. Ensure that field personnel know how to request resources during an emergency or disaster. 7. Work with local law, fire, emergency medical, and public works agencies to pre-identify staging areas for receiving and allocating outside resources. SUPPORT AGENCIES 1. Identify and secure appropriate resources to meet anticipated emergency/disaster operational requirements and maintain agency resource contact lists. 2. Work with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management to pre-identify staging areas for receiving and allocating outside resources. 3. Develop procedures and train personnel to accomplish anticipated emergency/disaster response and recovery activities including Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center operations and how to request outside resources. 4. As applicable, provide resources, transportation, facilities and services in response to requests for resources from the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. 5. As needed, request outside resources through the appropriate emergency operations center (if activated) or the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. 6. Provide for the registration of emergency workers in the field using sign-in logs, identification badges, or other appropriate method. 7. Develop procedures for emergency procurement of supplies and services and coordinate these activities with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management during emergency operations.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-34
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #8 – PUBLIC HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Health Department
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Medical Examiner ü PeaceHealth – St. Joseph’s Medical Center ü Whatcom Medic One ü Whatcom County Fire Districts ü American Red Cross – Mt. Baker Chapter ü Local Ministerial Association(s) and Churches ü Local Funeral Directors ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Private Health Care Facilities, Pharmacies and Labs ü Whatcom County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) ü Local Schools and School Nurses ü North Sound Mental Health Administration
PURPOSE To provide for the effective coordination and mobilization of public health services, emergency medical services, mental health services, and mass fatality management within Whatcom County and the municipalities located within the county during and immediately following an emergency or disaster.
SCOPE This Emergency Support Function addresses emergency medical activities occurring separately or coincidentally with a significant natural, human-caused, or technological emergency or disaster. The scope of this Emergency Support Function does not address routine day-to-day public health, emergency medical, human services, or mortuary activities. The scope of this Emergency Support Function does not address details regarding regional and statewide fire services resource mobilization. This Emergency Support Function addresses activities regarding public health services, mental health services, and mortuary services occurring separately or coincidentally with a significant emergency or disaster. These activities are categorized in the following functional areas: ü Assessment of public health needs. ü Assessment of mental health needs. ü Health surveillance.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-35
ü Assist in coordinating surge capacity at local hospitals. ü Water, food and drug safety. ü Emergency worker health and safety. ü Radiological, chemical, and biological hazards. ü Public health information. ü Vector control. ü Potable water, wastewater, and solid waste disposal. ü Mortuary services and victim identification. ü Mental health
POLICIES Public Health: The coordination and prioritization of public health services is the responsibility of the Director of the Whatcom County Health Department and/or the Whatcom County Health Officer, or their designee. The Whatcom County Health Department will provide guidance to political jurisdictions, agencies, and individuals on basic public health principles involving safe drinking water, food sanitation, personal hygiene, and proper disposal of dead animals, human waste, and solid waste including infectious and hazardous waste. It is the responsibility of the Director of the Whatcom County Health Department and/or the Whatcom County Health Officer, or their designee, to declare a public health emergency and/or to request deployment of the Strategic National Stockpile. It is policy that the Medical Examiner has jurisdiction over the bodies of the deceased. Hospitals: PeaceHealth- St. Joseph’s Medical Center has overall authority to direct hospital disaster activities within its facilities. Emergency Medical Services: All certified Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Basic Life Support (BLS) personnel in Whatcom County operate according to BLS and ALS Protocols established by the Whatcom County Medical Program Director and approved by the Medical Control Committee. ALS and BLS personnel operate under the direction of their respective on-duty emergency room physicians (Medical Control). During emergency or disaster situations, local fire agencies will mobilize all available EMS apparatus and personnel to deal with the situation. Additional EMS resources may be obtained through existing mutual-aid agreements. If the size and severity of the emergency or disaster overwhelm local and mutual-aid resources, outside fire services resources will be requested through regional and state fire mobilization.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-36
Direction, control and coordination of department/district fire personnel and apparatus within their respective jurisdictions shall be directed by the Fire Chief or highest ranking command officer. Mental Health: The Director of the Whatcom County Health Department and/or the Whatcom County Health Officer, or their designee, will coordinate with the Director of Whatcom Counseling Psychiatric Clinic to ascertain the mental health needs of disaster victims. If necessary, the Director of Whatcom Counseling Psychiatric Clinic, or designee, will provide for and coordinate the establishment of mental health and counseling services to meet the needs of the community. The Director of Whatcom Counseling Psychiatric Clinic, or designee, is responsible for the coordination and prioritization of mental health and/or counseling services for disaster victims. If needed, the Director of Whatcom Counseling Psychiatric Clinic, or designee, may request assistance from the North Sound Mental Health Administration. Mortuary Services: The Whatcom County Medical Examiner will pre-plan and coordinate with local funeral directors, funeral directors of neighboring counties, local law enforcement agencies, and the Washington State Department of Health to provide for coordinating the recovery of fatalities, conducting forensic investigations, and determining the cause and manner of death following incidents or events causing mass fatalities.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS Public Health: With the potential for, or the occurrence of an incident or event, Whatcom Unified Emergency Management will notify the Director of the Whatcom County Health Department, or their designee and if necessary, request that a representative from the health department report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center or appropriate municipal emergency operations center to assist in coordinating public health related activities. Public health response and recovery activities will be directed by the Director of the Whatcom County Health Department, or their designee. The Director of the Whatcom County Health Department, or their designee will coordinate public health response and recovery activities with the appropriate local and state medical and public health officials and organizations. The Whatcom County Health Officer or their designee will determine the need for isolation, detainment, and quarantine. Whatcom County Health Department staff will continuously acquire and assess information regarding the situation, identify the nature and extent of public health problems, and establish appropriate monitoring and surveillance of the situation to obtain valid on- going information.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-37
The Director of the Whatcom County Health Department, or their designee will coordinate the release of public information regarding public health matters with the Whatcom County Board of Commissioners or the appropriate municipal officials AND the appropriate Public Information Officer or Joint Information Center. Public information regarding public health matters will be disseminated by all available means. If additional support is required to protect public health, outside resources may be requested from the Whatcom County Medical Reserve Corps, Region 1 Public Health District, the State of Washington Department of Health, or the federal government. Requests will be made through normal emergency management channels. The Whatcom County Health Officer, the Director of the Whatcom County Health Department, or their designee, may also obtain supplemental state and federal assistance by direct request to the Director of the Washington State Department of Health. Throughout response and recovery activities, the Whatcom County Health Officer, the Director of the Whatcom County Health Department, or their designee will evaluate and analyze public health assistance requests and monitor the overall public health situation. Thorough documentation of public health activities shall be maintained by the Director of the Whatcom County Health Department, or their designee. The Director of the Whatcom County Health Department, or their designee will prepare an after- action report summarizing the activities of Emergency Support Function #8 to include identified problems/solutions, and recommendations for improvements. National Guard medical, transportation, weapons of mass destruction response teams, and other assets may be asked to deploy to support Emergency Support Function #8 requirements. These requests will be coordinated with the State Emergency Operations Center and the National Guard Liaison Coordinator to activate and deploy the necessary military units. Hospitals: During emergency and/or incidents or events, PeachHealth will operate to the best of its ability according to their established individual disaster plan to provide medical care and services to the public. PeaceHealth’s plan includes protocols to coordinate their operations within the Region 1 Public Health District comprised of Island, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom counties. Emergency Medical Services: Local Emergency Medical Services plans shall detail operational concepts and responsibilities to assure that the Emergency Medical Services System existing in the area will be capable of providing mass casualty emergency medical services during incidents or events. The provision of basic and advanced life support services shall be provided per local plans and Standard Operating Procedures as well as Advanced Life Support and Basic Life Support protocols. In a major emergency or disaster, Whatcom County will rely on existing local,
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-38 regional, and inter- county mutual-aid agreements to provide field Emergency Medical Services resources. Additional state and federal resources may be requested through the State Emergency Operations Center. All disaster emergency response shall be organized under the National Incident Management System and Incident Command System. Whatcom County and the municipalities within the county may need to rely on the use of private health care facilities and pharmacies to augment existing emergency medical services during a catastrophic disaster. Two Emergency Medical Services representatives to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will be pre-selected by the Whatcom County Ambulance Advisory Board. Upon activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and depending upon the nature and severity of the incident or event, the Emergency Medical Services representatives will report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to assist in coordinating Emergency Medical Services response and recovery activities. Mobilization of regional and/or state fire service resources shall be requested through normal emergency management channels. If, due to the size and severity of the emergency or disaster, regional and/or state fire mobilization is enacted to provide Emergency Medical Services field personnel and/or equipment, the emergency medical services Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center representatives will maintain liaison with the Northwest Region Fire Coordinator to coordinate local, regional, and state fire service resources. The Whatcom County Public Works Department and/or city/town public works/street department will provide for and coordinate the use of heavy equipment such as backhoes, excavators, loaders, dump trucks, and so forth used to perform debris clearance activities and otherwise support emergency medical services response and recovery activities. The What-Comm Communications Center is the focal point for disseminating alert and warning information to all emergency medical service agencies. Upon receiving alert and warning information, first response agencies are responsible for notifying both on- duty and off-duty staff to alert them of the situation and, if necessary, request that off-duty personnel report for duty. All emergency medical service agencies within Whatcom County operate on a 24-hour basis. Each agency has two-way radio communications links between their respective mobile units and the Prospect Communications Center. Advanced Life Support ambulances utilize cellular telephone and MEDCOM mobile radios as their primary communication links with local hospitals.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-39
American Red Cross: The American Red Cross provides emergency first-aid and health care for minor illnesses and injuries to victims in mass care shelters. In addition, the American Red Cross assists in obtaining daily medications for those who have lost or are unable to obtain them due to the disaster. Mental Health: If, after a significant incident or event, it is determined that there is a need (or could be a need) for mental health services, the Whatcom County Public Health Officer, the Director of the Whatcom County Health Department, or their designee shall make contact with the Whatcom Counseling Psychiatric Clinic Director, or their designee and request that a mental health representative report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, or appropriate municipal emergency operations center, to coordinate mental health related activities. The Director of the Whatcom Counseling Psychiatric Clinic or designee shall be responsible for coordinating all mental health and counseling services during both the response phase and the recovery phase of the incident or event. Depending upon the situation, the Whatcom Counseling Psychiatric Clinic Director, or designee shall request assistance from any and all appropriate resources to provide for the mental health needs of the community through normal emergency management channels. The Whatcom Counseling Psychiatric Clinic Director or designee shall monitor and evaluate the need for mental health services throughout the response phase and recovery phase of the incident or event to coordinate and provide for the mental health needs of disaster victims. The Whatcom Counseling Psychiatric Clinic Director or designee will coordinate the release of public information regarding mental health matters with the Whatcom County Public Information Officer, appropriate municipal Public Information Officer, or the Joint Information Center, if established. The Whatcom Counseling Psychiatric Clinic Director or designee shall insure that proper documentation of all disaster-related mental health activities is maintained and that an after- action report summarizing all mental health related activities is prepared following the incident or event. The after-action report should identify problems encountered and make recommendations for improvements, if needed, in responding to future incidents and events. Mortuary Services: According to RCW 68.50.010, the Medical Examiner has jurisdiction over bodies of all deceased persons who come to their death suddenly when in apparent good health without medical attention within the thirty-six (36) hours preceding death. Local funeral directors may assist in the processing of human remains at the discretion of the Medical Examiner. If local resources for proper identification, handling, and disposition of the dead are exceeded, the state and/or federal government may provide supplemental assistance. The Whatcom
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-40
County Medical Examiner may request such assistance through normal emergency management channels. The State Emergency Operations Center collects information on missing and dead in numbers only, verified by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office or the Whatcom County Medical Examiner.
RESPONSIBILITIES WHATCOM COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT 1. It is the responsibility of the Whatcom County Health Department to institute all public health measures, as required, to provide for and/or coordinate health and sanitation services including: 1.1. Providing public health and disease prevention information to the public. 1.2. Management of disease control activities. 1.3. Open medical shelters as appropriate based on the incident or event. 1.4. Declaration of a public health emergency. 1.5. Provide for surge capacity at local hospitals. 1.6. Institute isolation, detainment, and quarantine. 1.7. Deployment of Strategic National Stockpile assets. 1.8. Develop, train, maintain, and activate the Whatcom County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers. 1.9. Provide food and water quality control. 1.10. Management and collection/disposal of human waste. 1.11. Mitigation of environmental health hazards. 1.12. Coordination of health and sanitation services at mass care facilities. 1.13. Detection/identification of possible sources of contamination dangerous to the public and the community. 1.14. Coordination of the burial and/or disposal of dead animals. 1.15. Documentation of all public health response and recovery activities. 1.16. Preparation of an after-action report. PEACEHEALTH 1. Develop, maintain, and exercise disaster plans. 2. Train all appropriate personnel for disaster operations. 3. Develop and maintain procedures and protocols for reducing facility patient population for incidents or events that may require evacuation and for continuing medical care for those patients that cannot be evacuated. 4. Initiate in-house disaster plans, calling in off-duty personnel, and determining if additional outside medical resources are needed. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES 1. Develop, maintain, and exercise multiple-casualty incident (MCI) plans. 2. Insure all personnel are familiar with procedures for MCI incidents or events. 3. If needed, activate pre-staged MCI resources. 4. Provide for a system to re-call off-duty personnel. 5. Maintain ALS and BLS ambulances in a state of readiness.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-41
AMERICAN RED CROSS 1. Provide first aid according to American Red Cross policy within mass care sites. 2. If needed, coordinate and provide for the procurement and distribution of daily medications for those who have lost or are unable to obtain them due to the disaster. 3. If needed, assist in providing mental health counseling services within capabilities. WHATCOM COUNSELING PSYCHIATRIC CLINIC 1. Assess the need for mental health and/or counseling services for disaster victims. 2. If needed, coordinate the organization and delivery of mental health and/or counseling services, as necessary. MEDICAL EXAMINER 1. Provide for the identification, handling, and disposition of the dead including the issuance of a “Certificate of Death”. 2. Originate requests for state and federal assistance to provide mortuary services. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Coordinate requests for outside resources with requesting agencies and the State Emergency Operations Center. 2. Assist in providing overall coordination of local, state and federal resources to support local public health response and recovery activities. 3. Serve as liaison between local government and ministerial, religious, and other voluntary organizations for disaster related activities and assist in coordinating response and recovery activities of these organizations. 4. Provide liaison between local agencies and the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-42
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #9 – SEARCH AND RESCUE
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Municipal Law Enforcement Agencies ü Whatcom County SAR Council ü Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Federal Emergency Management Agency
PURPOSE To provide for the effective utilization of Search and Rescue resources and provide for the direction, control, and coordination of various types of search and rescue operations.
SCOPE This Emergency Support Function addresses wilderness and urban/rural Search and Rescue operations involving searches and rescues by ground, air, and water to provide life-saving, search, and/or rescue of persons (including persons with special needs) and the rescue of companion animals during the response phase and recovery phase of incidents or events. This Emergency Support Function is applicable to Search and Rescue operations occurring separately or coincidentally with a significant natural, human-caused, or technological incident or event. This Emergency Support Function does not address routine day-to-day Search and Rescue operations and/or activities and is NOT applicable to urban Search and Rescue operations. This Emergency Support Function does not address search and rescue operations typically conducted by fire service agencies such as searching for and rescuing persons within a burning building and the extrication of entrapped persons in vehicles at automobile accidents.
POLICIES The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office is responsible for coordinating Search and Rescue operations and training of Search and Rescue volunteers within Whatcom County. The Whatcom County Sheriff will appoint one or more deputies within his/her office as Search and Rescue Coordinator(s). Search and Rescue Coordinator(s) shall work closely with the Whatcom County SAR Council and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management to provide overall coordination and continuity of Search and Rescue services. Search and Rescue activities shall be per state and local operation plans adopted by the elected governing body of each local political subdivision. (RCW 38.52.400)
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-43
The National Incident Management System shall be utilized during all Search and Rescue operations in accordance with RCW 38.52.400. Whatcom County SAR Council training records shall be maintained by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. All Whatcom County SAR Council volunteers are registered as emergency workers with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. (RCW 38.52.400)
Upon request of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management may assist with the coordination and/or delivery of support services to Whatcom County Search and Rescue volunteers. Whatcom County Search and Rescue volunteers must be a registered member of the Whatcom County SAR Council and must be properly trained for their respective assignment. Training requirements should be assignment-specific and are to be developed by the Search and Rescue Coordinator(s) and approved by the Whatcom County Sheriff. Urban Search and Rescue or heavy rescue operations (such as collapsed building search and rescue) shall be a team effort comprised of fire service, law enforcement, emergency management, public works/street department personnel/equipment, and other agencies or organizations that may be required due to the nature and/or complexity of the incident. Search and rescue volunteers are not trained or equipped to be involved in these types of Search and Rescue or heavy rescue operations.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office is responsible for coordinating Search and Rescue operations. Search and rescue programs are developed at all levels of government through public awareness and school programs combined with training and education for professional and volunteer Search and Rescue units, as well as for the organization and deployment of response units. The Whatcom County SAR Council provides assistance to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office by providing qualified, equipped, and properly registered volunteers to assist in search and rescue operations and emergency/disaster response as requested by either agency. Whatcom County have the responsibility to establish criteria and standards for emergency workers whom they register for Search and Rescue purposes. This may include the demonstrated proficiency of the worker to perform emergency activities as indicated by assignment and personnel class. (WAC 118-04) The Whatcom County SAR Council ensures that all member units support the objectives of the Council and that members adhere to all state and county requirements.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-44
The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, upon the request of the Search and Rescue Coordinator, will obtain a Mission Number from the Washington State Duty Officer for Search and Rescue missions. The What-Comm Communications Center provides dispatch services for Whatcom County Search and Rescue volunteers. Whatcom County Search and Rescue volunteers are on-call on a 24-hour basis and are activated via pager and/or telephone. All Whatcom County Search and Rescue vehicles are equipped with two-way radios to provide communication links between respective mobile units and the What-Comm Communications Center. During incidents or events, Whatcom County SAR Council volunteers may be activated to assist law enforcement agencies in conducting evacuations and conducting citizen welfare checks in isolated areas. A dedicated radio frequency (155.160 MHZ) is utilized statewide for search and rescue purposes and is Whatcom County's primary search and rescue radio frequency. The Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center is not typically activated for Search and Rescue Missions. However, depending upon the magnitude and/or duration of a Search and Rescue Mission, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center may be activated to provide coordination, technical, logistical, and/or administrative support to Search and Rescue operations. Currently, an adequate number of Search and Rescue volunteers can be activated for most Search and Rescue missions from within the Whatcom County SAR Council. However, the council cannot provide all necessary equipment or personnel to cope with all types of Search and Rescue missions. Depending upon the complexity, location, or other special factors, additional Search and Rescue units may be requested from neighboring jurisdictions or the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division. All requests for outside resources will be made through normal emergency management channels. Whatcom County SAR Council volunteers may be activated and mobilized to assist accessing isolated areas via four-wheel-drive vehicle, snow mobile, boat or any other means available to conduct citizen welfare checks and evacuation. Additional special skills, expertise, or equipment to support local search and rescue operations is coordinated by the State Emergency Operations Center when local capabilities have been exceeded. Local search and rescue field operations will utilize all available communications methods needed to carry out effective operations. If needed, supplemental communications systems will be requested from the State Emergency Operations Center to assist with local search and rescue operations. Urban Search and Rescue or heavy rescue operations (such as collapsed building search and rescue) typically involve various agencies such as fire service, law enforcement, emergency management, public works or street department personnel/equipment, and other agencies or
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-45 organizations that may be required due to the nature and/or complexity of the incident. Search and rescue volunteers are not typically involved in these types of Search and Rescue or heavy rescue operations. If required due to the size and complexity of the incident, Urban Search and Rescue teams will be requested through normal emergency management channels.
RESPONSIBILITIES WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF 1. Make Search and Rescue policy decisions; develop and maintain Search and Rescue disaster plans and procedures as well as inventory lists of equipment and personnel. 13. Direct and coordinate all ground and/or water Search and Rescue operations within Whatcom County; if necessary, request activation of aircraft for use in Search and Rescue operations. 14. Establish training standards and criteria for Search and Rescue volunteers based upon Search and Rescue assignment and volunteer class in accordance with WAC 118-04. Insure volunteer Search and Rescue personnel are properly registered as emergency workers, have the proper training/experience, equipment and identification. 15. Appoint a Search and Rescue Coordinator(s) who will assist in recruiting Search and Rescue volunteers; oversee Search and Rescue training; direct and control Search and Rescue field operations and activities; and serve as the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office point of contact for local Search and Rescue units. 16. Maintain records of Search and Rescue training’s and missions. 17. If needed, coordinate Search and Rescue activities with other agencies and volunteer organizations. 18. Insure claims for compensation, injury, and damage are submitted in accordance with RCW 38.52.400. WHATCOM COUNTY SAR COUNCIL 1. Provide a forum for Whatcom County Search and Rescue groups to meet and exchange information and ideas regarding Search and Rescue related issues. 2. Assist the Search and Rescue Coordinator in training volunteer Search and Rescue personnel. 3. Provide volunteer Search and Rescue personnel and equipment (as available) for Search and Rescue related missions and perform tasks as directed by Search and Rescue Coordinator. 4. Account for and maintain vehicles and equipment utilized in Search and Rescue operations. WHATCOM COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT 1. It is the responsibility of the Whatcom County Health Department to institute all public health measures, as required, to provide for and/or coordinate health and sanitation services including: WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Register Search and Rescue volunteers in accordance with WAC 118-04 and issue identification card indicating emergency assignment.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-46
19. Obtain Search and Rescue mission numbers from the Washington State Duty Officer upon request of the Search and Rescue Coordinator. 20. Request additional and/or outside resources (such as Urban Search and Rescue teams) as needed from the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division. 21. Assist in the coordination of multiple agencies/organizations in performing complex search and rescue activities. 22. Maintain records on training missions and actual missions and forward to State Emergency Operations Center. 23. Administer search and rescue claims and forwards appropriate records and reimbursement requests to the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division. WASHINGTON MILITARY DEPARTMENT EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIVISION 1. Upon the request of Whatcom County Division of Emergency Management, request Urban Search and Rescue teams or other specially trained Search and Rescue personnel through normal emergency management channels. FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY 1. Tasks federal agencies to perform Search and Rescue activities under a Declaration of Emergency or Major Disaster Declaration by the President.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-47
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #10 – OIL AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Washington State Patrol
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Responsible Party ü Fire Service Agencies ü Public Works Department ü Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) ü Specialized Emergency Response Program (SERP)
PURPOSE The purpose of this Emergency Support Function is to provide the emergency organization for the coordination and efficient response to any incident involving oil or hazardous materials within Whatcom County.
SCOPE This Emergency Support Function addresses the establishment of priorities following an oil or hazardous material emergency, the steps that should be taken to contain the emergency, and the responsible parties involved.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS Hazardous Materials Response to hazardous materials incidents in Whatcom County and political subdivisions is defined in the Whatcom County LEPC Hazardous Materials Plan. According to the requirements of State law, a pre-designated incident command agency has been identified, and assumes overall direction and control of hazardous materials incidents. South Whatcom County Authority (Geneva/Sudden Valley) has retained the Incident Command authority for hazardous materials incidents in their jurisdiction. For all other jurisdictions in Whatcom County (excluding Bellingham), the Washington State Patrol has been designated as the Incident Command agency for hazardous materials incidents. Oil The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management representative(s) will report to the responsible party operations center in an emergency. The responsible party will provide the technical expertise for the response and recovery operations.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-48
The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management representative(s) will provide coordination with government infrastructure and key resources. Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will continue to work with the responsible party through recovery and assist in coordinating governmental support. Further response to hazardous materials incidents in Whatcom County and political subdivisions is defined in the Whatcom County LEPC Hazardous Materials Plan.
RESPONSIBILITIES HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 1. The method of operation, responsibility of individual response and recovery agencies and organizations, and operational details of coordinated response to hazardous materials incidents is defined in the Whatcom County LEPC Hazardous Materials Plan. 2. Whatcom County LEPC Hazardous Materials Plan includes provisions for compliance with applicable Federal law. The community right-to-know requirements of the Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act (SARA Title III) OIL 1. The responsible party will notify Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management through 911 or other available channels. 24. Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will respond to the activated response facility as requested by the affected refinery.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-49
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #11 – AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES Due to this wide-ranging scope, it is difficult to describe the organization of Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities as it pertains to these functions in standard Emergency Support Function format. For this reason, the format of this Emergency Support Function has been modified and separate sections for each function have been developed as listed below: 1. Food and Water 2. Food Safety and Security 3. Large Animal Relocation and Support 4. Animal/Plant Disease and Pest Response 5. Natural/Cultural and Historic Properties Protection and Restoration 6. Safety and Well-Being of Household Pets
FOOD AND WATER COOPERATING AGENCIES: ü American Red Cross ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Whatcom County Health Department ü Washington Military Department, Emergency Management Division ü Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) RESPONSIBILITIES
American Red Cross 1. Sign agreements with local schools, churches, governmental jurisdictions or agencies, and other organizations, prior to an incident or event, for the use of buildings and/or facilities as emergency mass feeding locations and food storage facilities. 2. Recruit and train volunteer staff in emergency mass feeding procedures and operations. Coordinate with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management in the development of local mass feeding programs and capabilities. 3. Provide mass feeding operations in accordance with the American Red Cross Disaster 4. Services Regulations and Procedures. 5. Upon request, provide mobile food service to emergency/disaster workers and victims. Maintain a close working relationship with other local, territory, state, and national American Red Cross officials. 6. Identify other local organizations that may be able to assist in providing food and water to support mass care services during a major disaster.
Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management 1. In cooperation with the American Red Cross, develop and maintain current plans and procedures to provide for the control and distribution of emergency food and water supplies to meet immediate and urgent needs within Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities within the county.
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2. Coordinate with the American Red Cross, local food banks, local religious organizations, Whatcom County Health Department, and the Whatcom County Senior Services Department regarding the establishment of staging areas for the distribution of emergency food and water supplies and the establishment of mass feeding locations and/or facilities. 3. Based upon the situation, coordinate with the American Red Cross and other organizations to determine which facilities could be used for mass distribution of food and water. 4. If needed, request assistance and/or support for the purchasing, procuring, and distributing of emergency food and water to the affected area(s) through normal emergency management channels. 5. Coordinate the release and dissemination of public information regarding emergency food and water operations with the appropriate Public Information Officer and/or the Joint Information Center.
Whatcom County Public Health Department 1. Analyze emergency potable water supplies to ensure that they are free from contamination. Conduct and/or coordinate health/sanitation inspections of food and feeding locations utilized for mass care purposes; identify deficiencies and make recommendations to correct problems.
State Emergency Operations Center 1. Upon request, assist local government in coordinating and/or providing for the procurement, delivery, and mass distribution of emergency food and water to affected emergency/disaster areas. 2. If needed, request the assistance of state agencies and private organizations having the capability to provide emergency mass feeding and emergency potable water as requested by local government. 3. If needed, request the assistance of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and/or other federal agencies/organizations having the capability to provide emergency food and water supplies/operations to affected local governments.
Federal Emergency Management Agency 1. Upon request, assist the State Emergency Operations Center in coordinating and/or providing for the procurement, delivery, and mass distribution of emergency food and water to affected emergency/disaster areas.
FOOD SAFETY AND SECURITY COOPERATING AGENCIES: ü Washington State Department of Agriculture ü Washington State Department of Health ü State Emergency Operations Center ü Various Federal Agencies ü Whatcom County Public Health Department ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-51
RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities of state agencies pertaining to the safety and security of food sources are listed in the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. Responsibilities of federal agencies pertaining to the safety and security of food sources are listed in the National Response Framework. The Whatcom County Public Health Department and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will cooperate and coordinate with various state and federal agencies insure the safety and security of food sources during and immediately following an emergency or disaster.
LARGE ANIMAL RELOCATION AND SUPPORT The purpose of this Section is to provide information on Emergency Support Function 11 - State Animal Response Plan which is what Whatcom County will utilize for Animal Health incidents or events affecting the health, safety, and welfare of human beings and animals. COOPERATING AGENCIES: ü Washington State Department of Agriculture ü Office of the Attorney General ü Washington State Department of Ecology ü Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife ü Washington State Department of Health ü Washington Department of Labor and Industries ü Washington State Department of Social and Health Services ü Washington State Department of Transportation ü Washington Military Department ü Emergency Management Division ü National Guard ü Washington State Patrol ü Washington State University ü College of Veterinary Medicine ü Federal Agencies ü Environmental Protection Agency ü U.S. Department of Agriculture ü Food and Drug Administration ü Department of Homeland Security ü Tribal Governments ü Private Organizations and Businesses ü Allied Industries and Professions ü Associated Councils, Boards, and Advocacy Organizations ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Whatcom County Health Department
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-52
RESPONSIBILITIES
Washington Department of Agriculture 1. Functions as the primary decision-maker for the Primary Decision Group and Secondary Decision Group, and co-decision-maker with United States Department of Agriculture for the United States Department of Agriculture-Animal Emergency Response Organization, if activated, and functions as the lead state agency when the United States Department of Agriculture emergency management system is activated. 2. Functions as the liaison between the local identifying practitioner or producer, the state of Washington, and the federal government. 3. Issues quarantines, embargoes, or hold orders, and oversees the implementation and enforcement of restricted, embargoed, or quarantined areas determined necessary by the Primary Decision Group, with the assistance of the other state and federal supporting agencies. Because time is of the essence in an animal health emergency, quarantines, embargoes, or hold orders may initially be issued verbally but will be documented by written order as soon as practical. 4. Determines the extent to which Washington State Department of Agriculture personnel will respond to an Animal Health Emergency. Duties in support of this Tab will take priority over all other duties of the Department.
Office of the Attorney General 1. Provides representation to the Primary Decision Group when requested by Washington State Department of Agriculture. 2. Provides legal assistance, including preparing administrative orders, as required, to accomplish the overall mission of dealing with a FAD within, or adjacent to, the boundaries of the state of Washington, including lands owned by tribal governments. 3. Functions as the liaison between the Washington State Department of Agriculture and legal counsel representing federal and tribal government.
Department of Ecology 1. Provides representation to the Secondary Decision Group when requested by Washington State Department of Agriculture. 2. Provides recommendations to the Primary Decision Group as to the most appropriate method(s) for disposal of dead, destroyed, and affected animals. If burning is utilized, Ecology will determine what fuels and procedures should be utilized to minimize the environmental impact. If burial is determined to be the method of disposal, Ecology will determine if the materials could be buried on site or transported to an offsite location. If the materials are transported to an offsite location, Ecology will identify the offsite location and make recommendations, in conjunction with the Washington Department of Transportation, regarding specific transportation requirements. 3. Assists the Washington National Guard in assessing the safety of disinfectants used for cleaning and disinfection of vehicles, equipment, and facilities. 4. Provides personnel at the site of each destruction and disposal area. Ecology personnel will be qualified to make environmental assessments.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-53
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife 1. Coordinates with Washington State Department of Agriculture and participates in the Secondary Decision Group as requested by Washington State Department of Agriculture, and as a responding agency if required. 2. WDFW will provide advice on risks to wildlife and methods to mitigate these risks. 3. Supports the law enforcement aspect of the restricted or quarantine area, if applicable. 4. Initiates a surveillance program in the immediate vicinity of the outbreak and determines in the disease has spread to wildlife if the FAD is one that has a history of affecting wild animals. WDFW will initiate steps to prevent the spread of the disease.
WASHINGTON ANIMAL RESPONSE MANAGEMENT TEAM The purpose of this Section is to provide information on Emergency Support Function 11 – Washington Animal Response Management Team which is what Whatcom County will utilize for Animal Health incidents or events affecting the health, safety, and welfare of human beings and animals. COOPERATING AGENCIES: ü Washington State Department of Agriculture ü Washington Military Department ü Emergency Management Division ü Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife ü Washington State Department of Health ü Washington State University, Cooperative Extension Service ü Washington State Veterinary Medical Association ü Animal Support Agencies and Organizations ü Volunteer Organizations RESPONSIBILITIES
Washington State Department of Agriculture 1. Coordinates the availability of resources by maintaining lists of County Animal Emergency Coordinators and Washington State Veterinary Medical Association volunteer county veterinary coordinators. 2. When the information is provided by each County Animal Emergency Coordinator, Washington State Department of Agriculture may coordinate the availability of resources by maintaining the following: 2.1. A list of shelters and confinement areas for each county. 2.2. A list of food and water sources for each county. 2.3. A list of county animal emergency coordinators. 25. Establishes a protocol for prioritizing decision making during response activities. 26. With the assistance of EMD, and their Public Information Officer, shall release information on disaster planning and safety for animals through news releases and/or brochures. 27. Washington State Department of Agriculture may conduct training for County Animal Emergency Coordinator, volunteer county veterinary coordinators, and other interested persons.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-54
28. In coordination with Washington State Veterinary Medical Association and Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, may develop and maintain a list of volunteer county veterinary and non-veterinary coordinators to provide assistance to the Washington Animal Response Management Team. The list may include information on the type of service being offered, number of volunteers, resources available, contact persons with telephone numbers and logistical abilities of each person. 29. Coordinates with Washington State Department of Agriculture personnel to develop roster for 24 hours per day, seven days per week staff coverage of the State Emergency Operations Center. 30. Prepares status reports. 31. Coordinates activities with other Emergency Support Functions. 32. Coordinates animal issues during multi-state disaster responses with Federal Emergency Management Agency or other state emergency management agencies. 33. Reviews and updates Emergency Support Function 11 with the assistance from the Washington Animal Response Management Team.
EMERGENCY DISPOSAL OF DEAD ANIMALS The purpose of this Section is to provide information on Emergency Support Function 11 – Emergency Disposal of Dead Animals which is what Whatcom County will utilize for dead animals affecting the health, safety, and welfare of human beings and animals. COOPERATING AGENCIES: ü Washington State Department of Agriculture ü Office of the Attorney General ü Department of Ecology ü Department of Health ü Department of Transportation RESPONSIBILITIES During an Animal Health incident or event, a natural or technological disaster, the need may arise to dispose of many dead animals, contaminated animal products, and animal waste. The coordinating body responsible for planning all dead animal disposal activities for the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan in an Animal Health incident or event will be the Washington State Department of Agriculture in consultation with the Primary Decision Group and as required the Secondary Decision Group. Emergency disposal methods are determined by the Primary Decision Group and may include, but are not limited to: burial, incineration, composting, digesting. The Primary Decision Group will select the best dead animal, contaminated product and animal waste disposal method based on the situation, location, disease or disaster, environmental and health concerns, and measures taken to control the spread of a foreign animal disease. Once the disposal method has been determined all agencies will provide support as required to complete the proper disposal of the dead animals, contaminated products, and animal waste. Care should be taken to prevent the spread of any foreign animal disease off site.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-55
Food Safety, Animal Health and Consumer Service Division, Washington State Department of Agriculture, maintains a list of licensed independent collectors and licensed renderers for routine disposal. For more information on these listings, contact (360) 902-1878. Counties should maintain a list of private contractors who can properly clean up, load, and dispose of this type of solid waste.
ANIMAL/PLANT DISEASE AND PEST RESPONSE COOPERATING AGENCIES: ü Washington State Department of Agriculture ü Washington State Department of Natural Resources ü Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife ü Washington State Department of Health ü Washington State Department of Ecology ü State Emergency Operations Center ü Various Federal Agencies ü Washington State University Whatcom County Extension ü Whatcom County Noxious Weeds Department ü Whatcom County Public Health Department ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management PURPOSE The purpose of Animal/Plan Disease and Pest Response (as stated in the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan dated June 2011) is to provide for the control and eradication of an outbreak of a highly contagious or economically devastating animal/zoonotic disease, highly infective plant disease, or economically devastating plan pest infestation. SCOPE Animal/Plan Disease and Pest Response (as stated in the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan dated June 2011) is applicable to the implementing of an integrated federal, state, and local response to an outbreak of a highly contagious or economically devastating animal/zoonotic disease, highly infective plant disease, or economically devastating plan pest infestation. This tab closely supports and coordinates with Emergency Support Function #8 – Public Health and Medical Services. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS Upon becoming aware of a potential or actual contagious or economically devastating animal or plant disease problem, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will request assistance from the State Emergency Operations Center to provide resources and programs to insure the control and eradication of the disease or pest infestation. Upon the request of Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, the State Emergency Operations Center will request assistance from various state and federal agencies to provide resources and programs to insure adequate actions are taken to control and eradicate the disease or pest infestation.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-56
Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities within the county will cooperate and coordinate with various state and federal agencies insure the control and eradicate the disease or pest infestation. Mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery activities pertaining to the control and eradication of an outbreak of a highly contagious or economically devastating animal/zoonotic disease, highly infective plant disease, or economically devastating plan pest infestation are listed in the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan dated June 2011. RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities of state agencies pertaining to the control and eradication of an outbreak of a highly contagious or economically devastating animal/zoonotic disease, highly infective plant disease, or economically devastating plan pest infestation are listed in the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan dated June 2011. Responsibilities of federal agencies pertaining to the control and eradication of an outbreak of a highly contagious or economically devastating animal/zoonotic disease, highly infective plant disease, or economically devastating plan pest infestation are listed in the National Response Framework. The Whatcom County Public Health Department and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will cooperate and coordinate with various state and federal agencies insure the control and eradication of an outbreak of a highly contagious or economically devastating animal/zoonotic disease, highly infective plant disease, or economically devastating plan pest infestation.
NATURAL/CULTURAL RESOURCES AND HISTORIC PROPERTIES PROTECTION AND RESTORATION COOPERATING AGENCIES: ü Washington State Department of Natural Resources ü Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife ü Washington State Department of Ecology ü Washington State Department of Parks & Recreation ü Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation ü Various Federal Agencies ü Whatcom County Department of Planning and Development Services ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management PURPOSE The purpose of Natural/Cultural Resources and Historic Properties Protection and Restoration (as stated in the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan dated June 2011) is to provide protection of natural and cultural resources and historic properties resources prior to, during, and/or after an Incident of National Significance.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-57
SCOPE Natural/Cultural Resources and Historic Properties Protection and Restoration (as stated in the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan dated June 2011) includes appropriate response actions to conserve, rehabilitate, recover, and restore natural, cultural, and historic resources. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS Upon becoming aware of damage (or potential damage) to natural, cultural, and/or historic resources or properties during and immediately following an emergency or disaster, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will request assistance from the State Emergency Operations Center to insure appropriate actions are taken to protect and/or rehabilitate natural, cultural, and/or historic resources or properties. If needed, the State Emergency Operations Center will request assistance from various federal agencies to provide resources and programs to insure appropriate actions are taken to protect and/or rehabilitate natural, cultural, and/or historic resources or properties. Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities within the county will cooperate and coordinate (within agency capabilities) with various state and federal agencies insure appropriate actions are taken to protect and/or rehabilitate natural, cultural, and/or historic resources or properties. Mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery activities pertaining to taking appropriate actions to protect and/or rehabilitate natural, cultural, and/or historic resources or properties are listed in the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan dated June 2011. RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities of state agencies pertaining to taking appropriate actions to protect and/or rehabilitate natural, cultural, and/or historic resources or properties are listed in the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan dated June 2011 Responsibilities of federal agencies pertaining to taking appropriate actions to protect and/or rehabilitate natural, cultural, and/or historic resources or properties are listed in the National Response Framework. The Whatcom County Health Department and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will cooperate and coordinate (within agency capabilities) with various state and federal agencies insure appropriate actions are taken to protect and/or rehabilitate natural, cultural, and/or historic resources or properties during and immediately following an emergency or disaster.
SAFETY AND WELL - BEING OF HOUSEHOLD PETS This plan is currently being developed.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-58
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #12 – ENERGY
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Public Works Department ü Municipal Public Works/Engineering Departments
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management
PURPOSE To provide for the effective use of available electrical power, natural gas, and petroleum products required to meet essential needs, and to facilitate restoration of energy systems affected by an emergency or disaster.
SCOPE The scope of this Emergency Support Function includes assessing damage to energy systems, estimating the supply and demand of such systems, and consideration of the requirements and coordination needed to restore these systems to pre-disaster levels of service. In addition, this Emergency Support Function addresses assisting Whatcom County government and the governments of the incorporated municipalities within the county to obtain and deliver fuel for emergency operations, transportation, communications, emergency operations, and other critical facilities.
POLICIES Priorities for re-establishing energy systems will be based upon lifesaving and meeting essential emergency needs. Priorities for re-establishing energy systems will be established by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management based upon direct input from the following: ü Whatcom Emergency Management Council ü Public Works and Engineering Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Representative ü Mass Care Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Representative ü Fire Services Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Representatives ü Law Enforcement Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Representatives ü Public Health and Medical Services Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center Representatives The Whatcom County Public Works Department, municipal public works/street departments, and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will maintain liaison with corporations and utilities that provide energy services within Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located within the county.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-59
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS The electrical power industry within Washington State is organized into a network of public and private generation and distribution facilities that form the Northwest Power Pool. Through such networks, the electrical power industry has developed a capability to provide electrical power under even the most extreme circumstances. Natural gas within Washington State is distributed by major natural gas companies through common pipelines originating in other states. Williams Gas Pipelines West owns and operates two large natural gas transmission lines that run through Whatcom County and supply natural gas to Cascade Natural Gas Corporation. The Washington State Energy Office can access local petroleum suppliers and major oil companies to facilitate the delivery of adequate amounts of emergency petroleum fuel supplies and may be requested through normal emergency management channels. When the requirement for coordinated use and mobilization of energy resources is necessary to government operations and for the protection of life and property, a representative from the Whatcom County Public Works Department will be asked to report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. If energy shortages exist, requests to meet needs will be forwarded through normal emergency management channels to the State Emergency Operations Center. The Governor may direct any state or local governmental agency to implement programs relating to the consumption of energy, as deemed necessary to preserve and protect public health, safety, and general welfare, and to minimize to the fullest extent possible the injurious economic, social, and environmental consequences of such energy supply alert. (RCW 43.21G.040) Actions may be taken to curtail use of energy until normal levels of service can be restored or supplemented. These resources, when curtailed, will be used to meet immediate and essential emergency needs of hospitals, emergency shelters, and other selected critical facilities.
RESPONSIBILITIES WHATCOM COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR 1. Provide direction and coordination for the repair of damaged energy facilities within Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located with the county and the restoration of energy services to meet the needs of response and recovery activities and the needs of the general public. 2. On behalf of county officials, coordinate those energy resources made available and upon which no restrictions have been placed by higher levels of authority. 3. Assure compliance with any restrictions or limitations placed on the utilization of energy resources by the state or federal government. 4. Coordinate the issuance of permits to energy providers to do work within Whatcom County rights-of-way and assist energy providers in obtaining permits required by other government agencies.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-60
5. Coordinate inspection of energy services installed within Whatcom County rights-of-way. 6. Upon request, report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center or appropriate municipal emergency operations center to assist with the coordination of energy needs and resources. 7. Maintain close liaison with local energy providers. 8. Advise energy providers of essential services required for emergency operations for the health and safety of the population. 9. Provide notification to all appropriate Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center representatives regarding the status of energy systems and restoration activities. 10. Provide the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center with current disaster analysis information. MUNICIPAL PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR OR ENGINEER 1. On behalf of municipal officials, coordinate those energy resources made available and upon which no restrictions have been placed by higher levels of authority. 2. Assure compliance with any restrictions or limitations placed on the utilization of energy resources by the state or federal government. 3. Coordinate the issuance of permits for energy providers to do work within municipal rights- of-way and provide inspection of completed work. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. In cooperation with county/municipal Public Works Directors or Engineers, pre-designate locations and a system for refueling of emergency and essential government vehicles in the event normal fuel sources may be disrupted due to a power outage. 2. Maintain liaison with the Whatcom County Public Works Department representative to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and energy providers and assist with coordination of energy needs and/or energy restrictions. 3. Assist the county/municipal Public Works Director/Engineer, in conjunction with energy providers, to assure compliance with any restrictions or limitations placed on the utilization of energy by the state or federal government.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-61
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #13 – PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECURITY
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office ü Municipal Police Departments
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü What-Comm ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Washington State Patrol
PURPOSE To provide for the effective coordination of law enforcement operations within Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located within the county in the event of an emergency or disaster. To maintain law and order through traffic and crowd control, provide security for vital facilities and supplies, control access and egress to operating scenes and vacated areas, conduct evacuations, prevent crimes against people and property, and protect key officials.
SCOPE This Emergency Support Function addresses all law enforcement activities including rural and urban law enforcement related incidents occurring separately or coincidentally with a significant natural, human- caused, or technological emergency or disaster. The scope of this Emergency Support Function does not address routine day-to-day law enforcement activities and does not pertain to the law enforcement agencies of the Indian tribal nations located within Whatcom County.
POLICIES Under emergency or disaster conditions, law enforcement activities are the responsibility of the local law enforcement agency within the jurisdiction. The Sheriff/Chief or highest-ranking command officer shall direct direction, control, and coordination of law enforcement personnel and apparatus within their respective jurisdictions. Mutual-aid agreements for law enforcement services exist between the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office and the municipalities of Blaine, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, Nooksack, and Sumas. As part of these mutual-aid agreements, law enforcement units supplied by other agencies will operate under the incident command system of the host jurisdiction. If, due to the size or severity of the incident or event, local and mutual-aid resources are overwhelmed, additional resources will be requested through normal emergency management channels.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-62
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS Alert and warning notifications to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office and municipal law enforcement agencies to report to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will be conducted by the What-Comm Communications Center. During emergencies or disasters, law enforcement agencies may be called upon to perform a wide range of functions including, but not limited to: warning and evacuation, search and rescue, emergency transportation, emergency communications, emergency traffic control, and damage assessment. Each law enforcement agency maintains its own policies and procedures specific to their jurisdiction. Emergency law enforcement services provided by law enforcement agencies will be requested on a mission basis to allow for continuity of operations consistent with their procedures and policies. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Blaine Police Department, Everson Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, Lynden Police Department, Sumas Police operate on a 24-hour basis. Each agency has two-way radio communication links between their respective mobile units and the What-Comm Communications Center. All mobile units are also equipped with cellular telephone capability. The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is the Search and Rescue Coordinator for all searches conducted by Whatcom County Search and Rescue Council member groups. Search and Rescue operations within the unincorporated areas of Whatcom County shall be directed by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. Search and Rescue operations within the municipalities of Blaine, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, Nooksack, and Sumas shall be directed by the jurisdiction with coordination provided by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. The What-Comm Communications Center is the focal point for disseminating alert and warning information to all local law enforcement agencies. Upon receiving alert and warning information, law enforcement agencies are responsible for notifying on-duty staff to alert them of the situation and, if necessary, request that off-duty personnel report for duty according to agency policies and procedures. If needed, and upon the request of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, a representative from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office will be requested to report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to assist in coordinating law enforcement response and recovery activities. Depending upon the nature and severity of the incident or event, or if multiple jurisdictions are affected, a municipal law enforcement officer may also be requested to report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to assist in coordinating law enforcement response and recovery activities.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-63
Upon activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, the law enforcement representatives shall be responsible for coordinating all Search and Rescue response and recovery activities. If, due to the size and/or severity of the emergency or disaster, a separate Search and Rescue Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center representative may be appointed to coordinate all Search and Rescue response and recovery activities. If needed, municipal police departments are responsible for sending a law enforcement representative to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center or an established command post to coordinate law enforcement response and recovery activities within the jurisdiction. If Search and Rescue response and recovery activities are required, a representative from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office may report to the appropriate municipal emergency operations center or command post to assist in coordinating Search and Rescue activities. The Washington State Patrol conducts crowd and traffic control activities on Interstate and State Highways passing through Whatcom County. Whenever any limited access highway facility passes within or through incorporated municipalities, the municipal police officers, the Whatcom County Sheriff, and the Washington State Patrol have independent and concurrent jurisdiction to enforce any violations of laws of the State of Washington. The Washington State Patrol bears primary responsibility for enforcement of the laws of the state relating to motor vehicles traveling on limited access highways. If needed, the Washington State Patrol will provide staff to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to assist in coordinating emergency or disaster law enforcement activities between local and state law enforcement agencies. If needed the Whatcom County Sheriff will arrange for and provide security for the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. Private security company personnel may also be used to provide Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center security. The Whatcom County Public Works Department and/or municipal public works/street departments will provide for and coordinate the use of heavy equipment such as backhoes, excavators, loaders, dump trucks, and so forth used to perform debris clearance activities and otherwise support law enforcement response and recovery activities. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will assist in coordinating debris clearance activities. Depending upon the nature, severity, and location of the incident, and the availability of equipment and personnel, supplemental communications and/or other support services to law enforcement field units may be provided by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, and/or the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Communications Van.
RESPONSIBILITIES WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE/MUNICIPAL POLICE DEPARTMENTS 1. Perform routine law enforcement activities and establish priorities based upon the availability of personnel and equipment.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-64
2. Provide warning and evacuation by door-to-door notification and/or use of mobile sirens and public address systems. 3. Provide traffic control to assist evacuation efforts and to restrict ingress and egress to emergency locations. 4. Provide the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management with preliminary damage information reports to the maximum extent possible. 5. If the magnitude of the emergency or disaster warrants, and depending upon the availability of personnel, provide a representative to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center (or municipal emergency operations center) upon the request of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. 6. Upon receipt of confirmed information of an emergency or disaster warning, or that an actual emergency or disaster has occurred, the municipal on-duty law enforcement supervisor(s) shall be responsible for notifying all city/town elected officials and personnel. 7. Upon receipt of confirmed information of an emergency or disaster warning, or that an actual emergency or disaster has occurred, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office on-duty supervisor shall be responsible for notifying all volunteer search and rescue personnel, if needed to support public safety and security related activities. 8. In the event of a large-scale incident or event, law enforcement personnel may be placed on alert status in accordance with agency policies and procedures. WHAT-COMM COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 1. Provide emergency call receiving and dispatching as well as alert and warning notification to all law enforcement agencies. 2. At the request of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, notify the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office as well as municipal law enforcement agencies regarding the activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center and the need for law enforcement representatives to report to the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to assist in coordinating law enforcement response and recovery activities. WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. If needed, assist law enforcement agencies and/or the law enforcement Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center representatives in coordinating law enforcement functions with other operating agencies. 2. Provide logistical and other support to all law enforcement agencies upon request. 3. If needed, coordinate law enforcement requests for state and federal disaster-related assets and services. WASHINGTON STATE PATROL 1. Upon request and within agency protocols and capabilities, assist local law enforcement agencies in public safety and security related activities.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-65
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #14 – LONG-TERM RECOVERY
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom Emergency Management Council ü All Whatcom County Elected Officials ü All Municipal Elected Officials ü All Whatcom County Departments/Offices ü All Municipal Departments/Offices ü All Special Purpose Districts ü American Red Cross ü Salvation Army ü Other Faith-Based Groups ü Private Nonprofit Organizations ü Volunteer organizations (COAD) ü Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division ü Federal Emergency Management Agency ü United States Small Business Administration
PURPOSE The purpose of this Emergency Support Function is to identify roles and responsibilities regarding the recovery of the governments of Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities of Blaine, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, Nooksack, and Sumas from an incident or event. This Emergency Support Function also pertains to the roles and responsibilities of governmental and non- governmental entities in assisting residents and businesses recover from the effects of an incident or event and the resumption of normal activities.
SCOPE It is the responsibility of government to assist the public and private sectors in their recovery from a disaster. A wide spread disaster might affect the ability of businesses to function, disrupt employment, interrupt government functions, and impact tax revenues. Short-term recovery involves the restoration of critical services such as emergency medical capabilities, communications, water supply, sewage service, and power as well as disaster debris removal. Long-term recovery involves the efforts taken to regain normal functions such as commerce and employment, public transportation, and the use of buildings, roadways, bridges, and other structures.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-66
Whatcom County government is primarily responsible for providing assistance to the population of unincorporated Whatcom County and for the return of Whatcom County government functions following an incident or event. The governments of the incorporated municipalities within the county are primarily responsible for providing assistance to the populations and for the return of government functions following an incident or event within their respective jurisdictions. If needed, and upon the approval of the County Executive, Whatcom County government will also support local municipal governments and special purpose districts on a county-wide basis by assisting agencies in coordinating recovery resources. This Emergency Support Function applies to all county and municipal departments and offices and addresses disaster related assistance and services provided by government and volunteer agencies following the response to an incident or event.
POLICIES Various laws provide for federal assistance under emergency or disaster conditions with presidential approval. The governor can request direct assistance from selected federal agencies without a formal presidential disaster declaration. If a large disaster causes widespread damage throughout the county, the recovery effort for Whatcom County government and the governments of the incorporated municipalities within the county will be coordinated by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center under the direction of the Whatcom Emergency Management Council. Recovery of governmental services will be directed by the Whatcom County Executive/Mayor(s). Costs to repair public damage will be the responsibility of the incurring organization. If available, reimbursement will be provided through state and federal programs. Recovery from smaller emergencies and/or disasters affecting only a single jurisdiction will be coordinated by the affected jurisdiction with assistance provided by Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management staff. Each individual county or municipal department/office and special purpose district is responsible for preparing work contracts, and for the collection and documentation of all costs associated with disaster response and recovery activities. If Whatcom County qualifies for state and/or federal individual disaster assistance, individuals, families, and businesses will be referred to applicable state and federal programs, or to volunteer agencies. If federal assistance is approved, each affected public sector (county, municipality, and special purpose district) will designate an Applicant Agent to serve as their official point-of-contact for coordination recovery efforts. Applicant Agents will coordinate recovery efforts between their respective jurisdictions or special purpose districts and state and federal officials.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-67
Unless otherwise directed by the Whatcom County Executive, the Department of Public Works will be the Applicant Agent for Whatcom County government to apply for and coordinate receipt of state and federal recovery funds. Each incorporated municipality and special purpose district will need to designate their Applicant Agent and advise the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management of their selection at the time state and federal recovery funds are requested. Upon request and within capabilities, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will assist the municipal and special purpose district Applicant Agents regarding recovery activities and/or programs.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS Following the response to an incident or event, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will remain activated, as needed, to coordinate recovery and restoration activities. The Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center may be reactivated on a temporary basis to meet developing needs throughout the recovery period. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will support county-wide activities. Liaison and coordination will be maintained with municipal, state, and federal officials as well as the American Red Cross and other volunteer organizations. The resources and services of county organizations will be used to the extent practicable. Additional services or resources, or those not normally part of the county inventory, may be procured from private sources, requested through the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division Emergency Operations Center. Individuals, families, and the business community seeking financial or housing assistance will be referred to state, federal or volunteer program coordinators, as applicable. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will establish a damage assessment hotline to enable residents and businesses to report damage. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center will also collect public damage assessment information from local governmental jurisdictions and special purpose districts. If conditions warrant, the Whatcom County Executive will ask that the governor seek federal disaster assistance to provide for public sector and/or private sector recovery from the disaster. In this case, damage assessment information will be consolidated and forwarded (as well as supplemental disaster information) to the Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division Emergency Operations Center to support a proclamation of emergency by the governor and request a presidential emergency or disaster declaration.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-68
Signed presidential disaster declarations for the state are approved to designated county geographical areas (such as Whatcom County) in two separate categories; public assistance for counties, cities, special purpose districts, and nonprofits performing government-like services; and individual assistance for individual citizens and businesses. Under certain conditions, the county or smaller jurisdiction may receive declarations approved by the US Small Business Administration or the Department of Agriculture without a presidential declaration. State and federal recovery activities are typically coordinated through a Joint Field Office. The location and level of operation is determined by the extent of the disaster and upon the needs of local jurisdictions.
RESPONSIBILITIES WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Prepare a local proclamation of emergency authorizing the activation of the local plan and program, the emergency use of local resources, and allowing emergency expenditures. 2. Maintain continued activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to effect local disaster recovery. 3. Acquire Initial Damage Assessment Survey information and continue to compile and revise damage assessment information and statistics as needed. 4. Depending upon the nature and severity of the emergency or disaster, request a Governor’s Proclamation of Emergency and a Presidential Disaster Declaration to aid in local recovery and restoration efforts. 5. Advise the Emergency Management Council and other county/municipal officials as to the status of recovery efforts. 6. Coordinate “Kick-Off” meeting with Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division Emergency Operations Center to begin public restoration and recovery programs. 7. Coordinate with and assist (with capabilities) the governments of Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located within the county as well as special purpose districts regarding recovery and restoration requirements and procedures. 8. If needed, assist in coordinating private non-profit recovery efforts. 9. Coordinate with the appropriate Public Information Officer(s) or the Joint Information Center regarding recovery and restoration public information. 10. Evaluate and secure appropriate building(s) and sites for the establishment of a local Disaster Recovery Centers. 11. Act as liaison to state and federal officials to facilitate recovery efforts. 12. Provide liaison with the Joint Field Office (JFO) for Whatcom County departments/offices and, upon request, for municipal departments/offices. 13. Document recovery activities and maintain accurate expense records. WHATCOM COUNTY ELECTED OFFICIALS/DEPARTMENTS/OFFICES 1. All departments/offices in Whatcom County government have to potential to be assigned duties directly associated with the recovery of the community following a disaster. Additionally, all governmental agencies have the responsibility to return to normal business capabilities as soon as possible following an incident or event.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-69
2. Based upon the nature and severity of the incident or event, the following county departments/offices may have significant roles and responsibilities in recovery/restoration activities. In addition, other organizations/agencies and programs may be available from time to time as funding is available and policy changes occur. Some or all of the following departments/offices may be represented in the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center based upon the needs of the event.
Whatcom County Administrative Services: 1. Perform major administrative decisions necessary for the continuity of county government, provide risk management services as soon as is feasible, assist county departments/offices in the protection of vital records, provide for the recruitment, allocation, and general management of labor forces required during recovery and restoration operations.
Whatcom County Assessor’s Office: 1. Assist the public in destroyed property claim processing that could affect property values, determine changes in property values in damaged areas and assist the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center in damage assessment analysis and reports.
Whatcom County Executive: 1. If conditions warrant, proclaim an Emergency and request assistance from the Governor of Washington State, authorize emergency spending of funds, and host visiting dignitaries. 2. Proposes motions or ordinances regarding one or more of the following topics: acceptance of debris at county solid waste collection facilities, special provisions for access to damaged buildings, appropriation of emergency funds, authorization to waive normal procurement requirements for emergency expenditures, and topics related to the encouragement of business recovery.
Whatcom County Budget/Finance Department: 1. Procure goods and services and maintain accounting of costs associated with Whatcom County government response, recovery, and restoration from emergencies and disasters. Recommend long-term economic recovery strategies to the County Executive.
Whatcom County Facilities Department: 1. Coordinate the emergency rental/leasing of property/buildings as required to provide for continuity of government, support county departments/offices in recovery and restoration activities as required.
Whatcom County Public Health Department: 1. Continue to monitor public health programs/services established during the response phase of the emergency or disaster, and determine if additional programs or services should be established to provide for the public health of citizens and emergency workers.
Whatcom County Human Services:
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-70
1. Continue to coordinate with the Director of the Whatcom County Public Health Department to evaluate the need to provide mental health services to victims of disaster.
Whatcom County Parks and Recreation Department: 1. Assist other county departments/offices with the safe keeping of public records, assist with debris clearance, assist in the transportation of evacuees to emergency shelters, and assist in the establishment of staging areas for incoming resources. 2. Upon the request of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, and upon authorization of the County Executive, make available county parks and recreation facilities, equipment and personnel to assist the American Red Cross and other volunteer support agencies with the establishment of emergency shelters.
Whatcom County Planning Department and Permit Center: 1. Inspect and properly identify structures within unincorporated Whatcom County that are deemed unsafe to occupy, issue building and other permits as necessary, advise the County Executive of the need for special provisions regarding fees and paperwork submission for emergency and disaster repairs, and be responsible for long-term re-building issues.
Whatcom County Public Works Department: 1. Designate at least one individual that will be responsible for coordinating with the Whatcom County Applicant Agent all issues regarding the use of state and federal funds to repair county roads, bridges, and other public works facilities. This will include damage assessment, the preparation of Project Worksheets, the completion of all proper forms and associated paperwork, award and administration of contracts for repair work, notification of completed repair work, and reimbursement by state and federal agencies for repair work. 2. Provide emergency construction, repair of county roads and bridges, erect signs and barricades as necessary, supply engineering support services to other county departments/offices and, upon request, assist the municipalities located within the county with engineering support services as directed by the County Executive. 3. Provide debris clearance as required, provide disaster victims access to county solid waste collection facilities for the disposal of damaged belongings. The County Executive may waive solid waste disposal fees for disaster victims.
Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office: 1. Support recovery and restoration activities as required. MUNICIPAL ELECTED OFFICIALS/DEPARTMENTS/OFFICES 1. The incorporated municipalities located within Whatcom County are responsible for conducting their own recovery and restoration operational activities. With the approval of the County Executive, Whatcom County will assist the municipalities in conducting recovery and restoration activities depending upon the availability of equipment and personnel. 2. Municipalities should: designate an Applicant Agent or request that the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management act as their Applicant Agent, maintain
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-71
liaison with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management regarding recovery and restoration activities, and coordinate with the appropriate Public Information Officer(s) or the Joint Information Center regarding the dissemination of recovery and restoration public information.
Mayor: 1. If conditions warrant, proclaim an Emergency and request assistance from the Governor of Washington State through normal emergency management channels. 2. Perform major administrative decisions necessary for the continuity of municipal government, provide risk management services as soon as is feasible, provide for the recruitment, allocation, and general management of labor forces required during recovery and restoration operations, and host visiting dignitaries.
City/Town Council: 1. Consider motions or ordinances regarding one or more of the following topics: collection of debris and damaged goods by city/town crews, appropriation of emergency funds, authorization to waive normal procurement requirements for emergency expenditures, and the encouragement of business recovery.
Budget/Finance Department: 1. Procure goods and services and maintain accounting of costs associated with municipal government response, recovery, and restoration from emergencies and disasters. Recommend long-term economic recovery strategies to the City/Town Council.
Parks and Recreation Department: 1. Assist other municipal departments/offices with the safe keeping of public records, assist with debris clearance, assist in the transportation of evacuees to emergency shelters, and assist in the establishment of staging areas for incoming resources. 2. Upon the request of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, and upon authorization of the Mayor, make available municipal parks and recreation facilities, equipment, and personnel to assist the American Red Cross and other volunteer support agencies with the establishment of emergency shelters.
Planning/Building Department: 1. Inspect and properly identify structures within city/town limits that are deemed unsafe to occupy, issue building and other permits as necessary, advise the City/Town Council of the need for special provisions regarding fees and paperwork submission for emergency and disaster repairs, and be responsible for long-term re-building issues.
Public Works/Street/Engineering Department: 1. Designate at least one individual that will be responsible for coordinating with the designated municipal Applicant Agent all issues regarding the use of state and federal funds to repair county roads, bridges, and other public works facilities. This will include damage assessment, the preparation of Project Worksheets, the completion of all proper forms and
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-72
associated paperwork, award and administration of contracts for repair work, notification of completed repair work, and reimbursement by state and federal agencies for repair work. 2. Provide emergency construction, repair of municipal streets and bridges, repair of water treatment and sanitary sewer facilities, erect signs and barricades as necessary, supply engineering support services to other municipal departments/offices. Provide debris clearance as required.
Police Department: 1. Coordinate with other local law enforcement agencies and support recovery and restoration activities as required. SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICTS 1. Special purpose districts such as dike districts, drainage districts, sewer districts, water districts, and Port Districts are responsible for conducting their own recovery and restoration operational activities. With the approval of the County Executive, Whatcom County will assist special purpose districts in conducting recovery and restoration activities depending upon the availability of equipment and personnel. 2. Special purpose districts should: designate an Applicant Agent, maintain liaison with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management regarding recovery and restoration activities, and coordinate with the appropriate Public Information Officer(s) or the Joint Information Center regarding the dissemination of recovery and restoration public information. VOLUNTEER NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
American Red Cross: 1. Upon request, provide conduct individual damage assessment within the affected area(s). 2. Within organization capabilities, assist in providing disaster recovery services including mass care, individual emergency assistance, and disaster welfare inquiries.
Salvation Army: 1. Within organization capabilities, assist recovery operations as a support agency to provide disaster recovery assistance in the form of food vouchers, cleanup kits, some medical assistance, counseling, and mobile feeding.
Other Faith-Based Groups: 1. Many church groups maintain stockpiles of resources, have the facilities to provide shelter and feeding of displaced populations, and collect funds on a voluntary basis for the recovery of local affected populations. These groups may offer their support through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management or, if activated, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-73
STATE AND FEDERAL AGENCIES 1. Assemble and dispatch damage assessment teams to document and verify public and private damage. 2. If Individual Assistance is authorized, establish a local Disaster Recovery Center to assist qualified citizens with filing claims for financial or housing assistance. 3. If Public Assistance is authorized, assemble and dispatch damage assessment teams to develop, in coordination with local representatives, Disaster Survey Reports for public damage and response costs. 4. Provide technical assistance and advice on recovery and mitigation activities, to both citizens and public agencies, as appropriate. 5. Coordinate public information and assistance activities with the Whatcom County Public Information Officer and or the Joint Information Center. Keep local authorities informed of assistance provided to local residents, businesses, and public entities.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-74
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTION #15 – EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
PRIMARY AGENCIES: ü Whatcom Emergency Management Council
SUPPORT AGENCIES: ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management ü Whatcom County Public Health Department ü Whatcom County Public Works Department ü Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office
PURPOSE To provide for the effective development, coordination, and dissemination of information to the public in case of natural, human-caused, or technological emergencies or disasters.
SCOPE The emergency public information actions of Whatcom County and the incorporated municipalities located within the county taken before, during, and following any emergency or disaster will be determined by the severity of the incident or event as declared by involved jurisdictions, state agencies, or as perceived by the public. A significant emergency public information response may involve many county and municipal agencies as well as the State of Washington and the federal government.
POLICIES The Whatcom County Public Information Officer will be pre-selected by the Director of Emergency Management with the approval of the County Executive. Whatcom County Public Information Officer(s) will coordinate the dissemination of public information and news releases for emergencies or disasters occurring within unincorporated Whatcom County. Each municipality shall appoint its own Public Information Officer(s) to coordinate the dissemination of public information and news releases for emergencies or disasters occurring within their jurisdictional boundaries. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management shall be notified of the appointment of city/town Public Information Officer’s. Upon activation of the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, all public information disseminated to the news media and citizens will be coordinated with the Whatcom County Public Information Officer to ensure release of compatible and accurate information. If a Joint Information Center is established within the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center, all public information disseminated to the news media and citizens by municipal Public Information Officer’s will be coordinated with the Joint Information Center to ensure release of compatible and accurate information.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-75
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS The functions of emergency public information include the dissemination of accurate and timely information which: promotes personal safety and survival, offers advice on protection of private property, provides accurate information on the actions of government and expected role of citizens, neutralizes rumors, and outlines assistance programs offered by local, state, federal, and volunteer agencies. Local jurisdictions are responsible for providing their citizens with information on the incident and what immediate protective actions they should take. Emergency public information regarding emergencies or disasters that affect only one jurisdiction will be coordinated by the affected jurisdiction. Upon the request of the affected jurisdiction, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will assist in the coordination and dissemination of public information to the media and citizens. It is the responsibility of the Whatcom County Public Information Officer (in cooperation with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management) to coordinate the dissemination of public information to the media and citizens during large and/or multi- jurisdictional incidents or events. Large emergencies or disasters or multi-jurisdictional incidents or events may require the establishment of a Joint Information Center within the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center to ensure the release of compatible and accurate information. Coordination of the release and dissemination of emergency public information is encouraged and all agencies/jurisdictions are requested to release public information through the Joint Information Center, if established. The Whatcom County Public Information Officer will manage the county’s emergency public information response through all phases of natural, human-caused, or technological incidents or events in collaboration with the County Executive. Whatcom County Public Information Officer functions will be located adjacent to, and coordinated with, the Whatcom Unified Emergency Coordination Center. If the situation requires, Public Information Officer functions may be co-located at an alternate site that affords better access to the responsible elected official(s), current emergency information, and media contact. Public Information Officer staff persons will be pre-selected from various county departments/offices, based on their ability to write media releases, speak effectively, understand media procedures, and evaluate emergency situations. Enough Public Information Officer staff persons should be pre- selected to insure availability of Public Information Officer staff during incidents or events. The activation of county/municipal Public Information Officer’s will be dependent upon the nature and severity of the incident or event. Public Information Officer functions during minor
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-76 incidents or events may be conducted by the On-Scene Incident Commander(s), the Emergency Management Director, or their designees. The release of public information by municipal Public Information Officer’s is to be coordinated with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. Upon request, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management will support municipal Public Information Officer functions. If a municipal Public Information Officer is not available, the Whatcom County Public Information Officer may be utilized to perform municipal Public Information Officer functions with the approval of the Whatcom County Council and the Mayor of the affected jurisdiction. Depending upon the nature and/or severity of the incident or event, it may be necessary to coordinate emergency public information with neighboring counties and the Washington State Emergency Information Center. The Washington State Emergency Information Center will request emergency public information from local jurisdictions when such information is necessary to support the Washington State Emergency Information Center or the State Emergency Operations Center. The Washington Military Department Emergency Management Division Public Information Officer will coordinate the management of the state’s emergency public information response through all phases of natural, human-caused, or technological incidents or events. This will be accomplished in collaboration with the Governor’s Communications Director and the Washington Military Department’s Public Affairs Officer. State emergency public information will be coordinated through the Washington Emergency Operations Center. If a Joint Information Center is established, state-level emergency public information also will be provided to the media and the public through that facility. The state will coordinate with federal agencies to provide federal-level information to the public following a natural, human-caused, or technological emergency or disaster, as deemed necessary.
RESPONSIBILITIES WHATCOM COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER’S 1. Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with the media. 2. Coordinate with elected officials, Emergency Management Director, Incident Commander, or Unified Command Organization (as appropriate) for the delivery of emergency public information. 3. Obtain approval from elected officials, Emergency Management Director, Incident Commander, or Unified Command Organization (as appropriate) prior to the release of emergency public information. 4. Coordinate the release of emergency public information with other jurisdictional Public Information Officer’s or establish a joint Information Center (as needed) to insure appropriate and consistent dissemination of emergency public information.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-77
WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. Upon request, provide logistical support to county and municipal Public Information Officer’s for the efficient dissemination of emergency public information. 2. If needed, request additional Public Information Officer personnel through normal emergency management channels.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 10-78
ANNEX 11 - HAZARD SPECIFIC PLANS, STANDARD OPERATING GUIDES, CHECKLISTS
SEVERE WINTER WEATHER STORM The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management has a severe winter weather storm plan on file, which includes a Standard Operating Guide.
EARTHQUAKE The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management has a comprehensive Earthquake plan on file, which includes a Standard Operating Guides.
JONES CREEK LANDSLIDE The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management has a comprehensive Jones Creek Landslide plan, including a Standard Operating Guide.
FLOOD OR DAM FAILURE The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management has a comprehensive flood plan, including a Standard Operating Guide. They have a dam failure plan on file, including a Standard Operating Guide.
VOLCANO The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management has a plan on file for Mt Baker and Glacier Peak. Additionally, there is a Mt. Baker/Glacier Peak Coordination Plan from the Washington Military Department, Emergency Management Division.
TSUNAMI The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management has a tsunami plan on file, including a Standard Operating Guide.
WILDLAND FIRES The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management has a wildland fire plan on file.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management has a Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan on file.
TERRORISM The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management has a comprehensive terrorism plan on file.
Whatcom County CEMP 2017 Annex 11-1