12 AMERICAN POLICE BEAT: AUGUST 2017 by Joel Vetter S uffolk County looks back on S u p e r s t o r m Sandy and Win- ter Storm Nemo to reflect on what we’ve learned, what we’re still learning and how our emergency procedures continue to enhance. One of the biggest les- sons is practice makes perfect and preparedness is key. When a large scale event strikes, there is cha- os, but having a plan al- lows you to act rather than panic, improving safety for citizens and our first responders. TIP: Effectively communicate and practice Propercommunications plans help ensure peo- ple can react efficiently and effectively. During Superstorm Sandy, the community faced enor- mous flooding and it was important that we evacu- ated the individuals in the most danger first. Forecast predictions help identify which areas will need assistance most, but you never really know what to expect. In the past, we required that paper applications be submitted to help us determine who needed to be moved and when. We would call people manu- ally to see who needed assistance, which could take hours. With efficiency being key, we decided to implement solutions from data and communications company, and we’ve had great success with the technology. Now, we’re able to do immediate bulk messag- ing to a customized list of people. Technology that allowed us to target certain individuals helped ensure that we were providing the best help possible to the greatest number of people while responding better and faster. In addition to having the right communications plat- forms, the Suffolk County community was forced to conduct evacuations prior to the storm. Being confi- dent in what you need to do and where you need to go helps people stay calm in an emergency, reducing wide-spread panic. TIP: Don’t just adopt technology, embrace it Make sure the com- munity understands and is comfortable with new technologies. Adop- tion is key; if people don’t accept the power of tech- nology, then it can’t be used the right way. In 2013 New York was hit with heavy snowfall and hurricane-force winds during Winter Storm Nemo. The community needed to be prepared for any- thing – heavy winds, icy roads, downed trees, snow accumulation, power out- ages, freezing tempera- tures. Well before the storm hit, it was important that individuals understood the communications technol- ogy we had in place. To do this, we encouraged opt-in signups for things not necessarily related to an emergency. Don’t wait until an emer- gency to utilize the tools. Leverage the technology for standard communica- tions, so users become ac- customed with the alerts. If citizens know how to use the tools before they’re under the stress of a real storm, they will be much more prepared to handle it. We can never be certain of the many variables that take place during any ma- jor storm. One thing is for sure though, an effective emer- gency preparedness plan can help to ensure the safety of your community. It’s not a matter of if a devastating storm will hit, but when. It’s time to get started on your emergency preparedness plans. Joel Vetter is the chief of Emergency Support Services of Suffolk County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services in New York. You’d better have a plan You’d better have a plan It’s hurricane season. Does your agency have what it takes to respond effectively? Winter storm Nemo bashed New York and New Jersey and had all first responders out straight for days.