Emergency Operations Section

This site is dedicated to the science and technology of disasters and emergencies. StormSector in the sky and on the ground since 2001. Read about emergency operations here as well as disaster education. It takes a special kind of person to be involved in professional emergency operations. They are those who prevent, plan, and respond to events. Read on to learn more.

Section: Operations | Communications | Warning & Alert | Types | Tips | Community

Professional Emergency Operations
With a growing populous it became necessary to plan, respond, and take measures to prevent emergencies. That's where emergency service professionals count. More recently, over the past 20 years the industry has become more organized with special attention to legal matters and science. Today, all emergency officials are now licensed either by State, National, or a combination of the two.

Each individual is trained to specific standards in their respective areas of expertise. To assure quality, legalities, best practice, and efficiency all professionals go thru training and license processes to prove their skill set. Next to this experience also plays an important role. Most professionals are involved in some type of operation relative to their profession.

top

Modern Communications
Since the United States has become more populated and full of assets (property, buildings, etc) a modern system of communication become both a need and a luxury. In the case of emergencies, a line of communication is absolutely necessary both face to face and remote access. It may mean the difference between life and death. Technology is ever evolving in this area especially with the creation of GPS devices and enhanced telecommunication systems. You may have used one or both in your life maybe without even knowing.

top

Alert & Warning
Old alert systems once were used to respond to war-time attacks. Today several modern systems exist including Amber alerts, traffic alerting, Emergency Alert System, tickers, pagers, cell phones, and radios. Each have multiple purposes and are now widely used across the United States. They are important because they fill a gap that once existed where no timely route for disseminating important messages were in place. Even to this day there are new systems being developed. What matters in the end is if the technology is effective.

top

Operation Types
There are numerous agencies, organizations, clubs, and networks involved in emergency operations. They include (but not limited to), communications specialists, dispatchers, emergency medical service, fire, police, military, healthcare, recovery, damage assessment, search & rescue, weather forecasters, volunteers, etc. If you are interested in becoming involved with one of these fields, see your local community college or university for course information and requirements (including prerequisites). You can also volunteer (see the links page for volunteer organizations).

top

Public Tips
During times of emergencies or disasters stress is often high and so are emotions. People need to first remember to stay calm and use common sense. For example don't go out to see accidents, film fires, drive across flooded roads, film severe weather, or walk into an official scene - unless you are there for a bonafide reason. Unnecessary traffic or interaction often causes confusion, delays, and only makes the situation worse.

In times of weather emergencies - always follow instructions and pay close attention to watches and warnings (see the severe weather education section of the site). During other emergencies - remain calm, stay out of danger, and call for help (or to give legitimate tips/reports). Never try something that you are untrained for or is unsafe. Many emergencies can be prevented. Always use common sense, courtesy, and good faith.

top

Community Involvement
Your author believes it takes a lot of heart, time, and effort to make a difference. However, each individual may be able to contribute in some way. Many ask "what can I do?" You can do much and it's a great public service.

A good community will get involved when it comes to situations or events that directly affect them. Imagine if your neighbor's house was on fire. Of course you would call for help and nock on the door to see if anyone was home. Maybe you would even get your water hose out to try and help. Or maybe you get involved in your neighborhood watch to prevent crime. Maybe you would organize a trash clean up event. You might even join a volunteer organization and help with a cause. The possibilities are unlimited. Especially if you have a special background or training; you may be an asset to an organization or agency.

StormSector has compiled a starting list of organizations you may be interested in for volunteering. Please see this link. Remember, there is no limit and your involvement is solely up to you. In the end, it does make a difference and shows the world that you care and are at least trying.


top