Topic introduction

A study of emergency event case histories world-wide reveals that the success or failure of communications has invariably been an overriding factor in the effectiveness of implementing emergency management strategies.

The successful management of any emergency incident is largely dependent upon the receipt, analysis and dissemination of timely and accurate information. The flow of information cannot occur without there being in place reliable communication systems and arrangements that are both inter and intra-community as well as inter-agency compatible. These systems and arrangements should be supported by plans and procedures that are understood and practised by all participants.

It is true that it is difficult, if not impossible, to cater for every eventuality, especially in extreme circumstances. Nevertheless, it is possible to minimise the effects of potential problems by thorough preparation, planning and exercising prior to an emergency event occurring.

As you research your chosen event, some of these factors will be more prevalent than others, but they will all play a role in whether or not the communications systems and arrangements that were in place for your chosen event were adequate or not.

Before commencing the assignment requirements for this topic, it is important that you establish a list of areas that need to be investigated to determine the effectiveness of communications in the management of the pre-impact phase of your event. We will spend some time on this activity later in this topic, but for now, some of the areas needing investigation might include:

establishing whether or not there were any specific plans or procedures in place that addressed communications systems, processes and arrangements at the time of your event;

• determining the functions of these communications systems and arrangements in an emergency management context.

Having now read this chapter, you will recall that one of the most important strategies in emergency management preparedness is that of planning. I would now like you to invest some of your time in examining planning and specifically look at the area of communications planning.