HomeMy WebLinkAboutInformational Item - Emergency Preparation UpdateV____ O 1_
CITY OF PALM DESERT
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
STAFF REPORT
REQUEST: Informational Item on Emergency Preparation
SUBMITTED BY: Gary Rosenblum, Risk Manager
DATE: October 13, 2005
The newly revised Palm Desert Standardized Emergency Management System Plan
has been distributed. This Version 3.0 is not a substantive revision from the previous
version 2.10 from June 2002, but it does have some improvements. The key elements
of the plan focus on the functions and operations that City Employees will be
performing. It does not include the functions that we expect will be performed by the
Police and Fire departments who have their own action plans.
This SEMS plan covers the functions that the City will perform:
• Management supervision and coordination.
• Logistics and planning support to Police and Fire search and rescue and security
operations.
• Public information outreach.
• Coordination with County, State and Federal agencies.
• Communication coordination between agencies and the public.
• Building and Safety and infrastructure inspection and assessment operations.
• Logistics and Planning Support for Red Cross and related shelter and necessities
outreach to the public.
• Coordination with public utilities, banks, hotels, and other major businesses in the
City.
• Restoration of City Hall operation and functions.
• Financial tracking and management.
• City contractor management for building and safety and cleanup.
The main revisions between the previous version and this one were to separate the
names of the City Emergency Response Team from the plan (to allow more frequent
updates of the team names), and to condense multiple Situation Analysis sections into a
single team working on situation analysis within the Planning Section (to create more
flexible structure). Other revisions included were adding management of our
contingency contractors for Building and Safety FEMA assistance (Willdan) and building
cleanup and restoration (Belfor USA) to the plan. I do not believe these revisions are
substantial enough to warrant the approval process used for the last version, and
believe there is more value in expediting the distribution of the revised plan to our staff.
Staff Report
Standardized Emergency Management System Plan Version 3.0
Page 2 of 3
October 13, 2005
City Emergency Response preparation projects have been ongoing.
Outreach to the public is increased with a Brightside Special Edition devoted exclusively
to Emergency Planning. The Risk Manager provides detailed emergency planning
guidance both over the phone and through personal presentations to homeowner
associations, churches, and commercial enterprises. This guidance consists of both
things individuals can do to prepare and what the City is expecting it will be able to
provide.
Contacts have been made with local banks to assist in coordinating emergency plans
regarding public cash flow issues. Local hotels and regional shopping centers have
also been contacted. The Risk Manager has been in close coordination with both the
Riverside County Office of Emergency Services regarding training and grant money,
and with the regional Coachella Emergency Manager's Association for providing
planning and response services. This coordination activity includes regular meetings
with the local and regional Red Cross, and Animal Samaritans of the Desert as well as
the school districts and hospitals. Requests for information and presentations are being
received at about one per day since Hurricane Katrina.
The City is reviewing and updating basic emergency supplies. New and additional
basic response and survival supplies are on order. An "employee emergency supply
vendor day" is in planning stage for October. Employees will have the opportunity to
purchase pre -assembled emergency kits from a local vendor. Regional medical caches
in the City have been inventoried for restocking by our Fire Department medical
team. The City blanket and sleeping bag cache has been repackaged for easier staging
in the event they are needed.
The City is finalizing the contingency contract with the large national clean up and
restoration company (Belfor USA) for major events, and has identified other alternate
local clean up and restoration contractors who have been added as local vendors to our
system for smaller events or to supplement in a major event.
Our communications systems have been reviewed and upgrades are planned.
We purchased one dozen "family frequency" walkie-talkies, which use open channels
and have a range of 5-8 miles for back up local radio communications. These can be
used by both our emergency responders, in the event our standard radios are out of
service, and by local HOA, schools and church groups to communicate with the City.
We test our RACES "ham" radio monthly. We repaired our hard -wired EOC-based
satellite phone, which is now tested monthly, and will purchase 8-10 hand-held satellite
phones before the end of 2005. These phones will be distributed to Police and Fire
Chief, Mayor, City Manager, Incident Commander alternates and Emergency
Manager for use in the event normal phone, cell phone, and radio transmitter service is
interrupted.
G \DevServ.ces\Gary Rosenblum\Word Fdes\Staft Reports\SEMSPIan doc
Staff Report
Standardized Emergency Management System Plan Version 3.0
Page 3 of 3
October 13, 2005
The EOC has a dedicated laptop that stores emergency information, forms and phone
numbers, as well as the SEMS plan. All this information is also backed up on several
separated disk files and the City network. The EOC has been modified for a flexible
floor plan with new lightweight folding tables and new stack chairs. This enables the
room to be configured as necessary during the emergency.
Submitted By: Department Head
Gary Rosenblum
Risk Manager
City Manager
Homer Croy
ACM for Development Services
G \DevServ,ces\Gary Rosenblum\Word Fdes\Statf Reports\SEMSPIan doc
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
STANDARDIZED
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM PLAN
(SEMS PLAN)
Version 3.0
September 2005
GENERAL•INFORMATION
Authority
This Standardized Emergency Management System Plan is authorized by the Palm
Desert Municipal Code 2.48.070 and is activated by Declaration of Local Emergency for
a good and sufficient reason according to Palm Desert Municipal Code 2.24.090.
The Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
The City of Palm Desert EOC is used to coordinate, manage and provide mitigation
planning for any emergency situations or a disaster. The EOC is activated when a
Declaration of Local Emergency is made by the City Council, or by another individual
authorized by Palm Desert Municipal Code 2.48.090 (City Manager, Emergency
Services Coordinator/Risk Manager, Assistant City Manager/Redevelopment, Assistant
City Manager/Public Works, Assistant City Manager/Community Services, Assistant City
Manager/Economic Development).
Location
The City of Palm Desert Emergency Operations Center is located in the Civic Center or
other contingent location to be identified .if the EOC is non-functional.
Access
Entry into the Emergency Operations Center MUST be made through the Employee
entry. All personnel MUST identify themselves as City of Palm Desert employees, using
pre -assigned identification badges.
Any request to activate the EOC other than those listed above must be made with the
approval of the parties listed above.
The City Manager is to be notified when the Emergency Operations Center is activated.
In addition, the "On Duty" Police Department Watch Commander, Captain, or Fire Chief
or his designated representative will also be notified.
When placing the Emergency Operations Center into operation, the following
information is established:
1. The level of the emergency.
2. Declaration of an emergency.
3. Establish Section Chiefs within the Standardized Emergency Management
System (SEMS).
4. Section Chiefs determine the need for additional support personnel.
September 2005
Page 2 of 98
GENERAL INFORMATION
Levels of Disaster
The City of Palm Desert recognizes three levels of disaster, which will be dictated by the
severity of the emergency. These levels correspond to. the State of California Office of
Emergency Services (OES) and our City of Palm Desert Emergency Plan.
Level 1
A significant Citywide emergency. Local resources are adequate and available.
Some off duty personnel in all departments may be recalled.
Level 2
A moderate to severe emergency. Local resources are not adequate and Mutual
Aid may be required. All off duty personnel will be recalled. Contingency Building
and Safety contractor is activated.
Level 3
A major disaster. Resources in or near the impact area are overwhelmed and
extensive Mutual Aid is required. A state of Emergency may be proclaimed and a
Presidential Declaration of an Emergency or Major Disaster may also be
requested. All off duty personnel in all departments will be recalled. Contingency
Building and Safety contractor is activated.
Standardized Emergency Management System
The Standardized Emergency Management System develops flexible organization and
coordination from the time an incident occurs until the requirement for management and
operation no longer exists.
The Incident Commander is a title which can apply .equally to a Police Captain, Fire
Department Chief Officer, City Manager or Assistant City Manager/General Services,
Assistant City Manager/Public Works, and Risk Manager depending on the immediate
circumstances. As chains of command within the County, State and Federal response
are developed; the Incident Commander may come from one of those entities. •
The structure of the Standardized Emergency Management System can be established
and expanded depending upon the changing conditions of the incident. It is intended to
be staffed and operated by qualified', trained personnel from the City of Palm Desert and
could include representatives from outside agencies: Palm Desert Police, any Utility
Company, the Red Cross, and many others.
September 2005
Page 3 of 98
The Standardized Emergency Management System Organizational Structure can be
utilized for any type or size of emergency ranging from a minor incident involving only a
few members of the Emergency Organization, to a major incident involving several
agencies outside the Palm Desert area. The Standardized Emergency Management
System Organizational Structure allows agencies throughout the State of California to
communicate using common terminology and operating procedures. It also allows for
the timely acquisition of a combination of resources during the time of emergency.
The SEMS Organizational Structure develops in a modular fashion based upon the type
and size of the incident. The organization's staff builds from the top down. The specific
organizational structure established for any given incident will be based on the
management needs of the incident. The SEMS Organizational Structure has five major
functional areas: Command, Operations, Planning, Logistics and Finance.
The Command Section
The Command Section is, responsible for overall command and administration of the
incident. Command also includes certain support staff functions required to support the
command function.
A. Incident Commander
B. Emergency Services Officer
C. Legal Officer
D. Public Information Officer
E. Policy Decision Group
F. Riverside County Office of Emergency Services
Incident Commander
The Incident Commander is usually the City Manager, Assistant City Managers or a
designated representative of the City Administration as described in the Emergency
Plan. Incident Commander is a title which can apply equally to a Police Captain, Fire
Department Chief Officer, or other appointed person by the City Administration
depending on the type of situation.
Emergency Services Officer
The Emergency Services Officer is the individual assigned by the .City Manager,
Incident Commander or the City of Palm Desert Municipal Code. The Emergency
Services Officer is intended to act as a resource to the Incident Commander. The
Emergency Services Officer will also act as, or designate a County EOC Liaison to
coordinate with the Riverside County Emergency Operations Center and act on behalf
of the City of Palm Desert in all matters relative to the emergency.
September 2005
Page 4 of 98
Legal Officer
The Legal Officer is usually the City Attorney or Assistant City Attorney. The Legal
Officer is intended to provide legal advice to the Incident Commander in all legal matters
relative to the emergency.
Public Information Officer
The Public Information Officer is a member of a team of specially trained personnel
employed by the City of Palm Desert to act as a source'of information to the public and
news media. The Public Information Officer will coordinate with the Riverside County
Office of Emergency Services (OES) and utilize the Riverside County Emergency Alert
System (EAS)
Policy Decision Group
The Policy Decision Group is made up of the Incident Commander, Fire Chief, Police
Chief, Community Development Director, Operations, Planning, Logistics and Finance
Section Chiefs, and as may be required, Technical Specialists. The City Council may
also designate a Council Liaison who coordinates Council input with the Policy Decision
Group.
The Legislative Section
The Legislative Section is the elected or temporarily appointed member of the City
Council. The legislative section is responsible for adopting all necessary emergency
ordinances and resolutions to declare a state of an emergency, special law enforcement
control, funds for responding to the emergency and providing emergency care and
shelter for displaced people. The legislative section may also adopt special rules and
regulations, waive normal zoning and building code requirements and modify the
Municipal Codes to provide for the longer -term response and recovery from a major
emergency or disaster. In a Level 3 emergency, the Incident Commander will
temporarily appoint persons to the Legislative Section until the duly elected members
arrive. The Council may provide a Liaison to the Policy Decision Group as necessary.
The Operations Section
The Operations Section, under the supervision of the Operations Section Chief, is
dedicated to all field operations. In addition, the Operations Section is responsible for
the management of all incident tactical activities. The following functions and units are
the responsibility of the Operations Section.
A. Fire and Rescue/Medical
B. Law Enforcement
C. Liaison County EOC
D. Maintenance and Engineering
E. Damage Assessment
September 2005
Page 5 of 98
Operations Section Chief
The Operations Section Chief is in charge of all functions and units in the Operations
Section and reports directly to the Incident Commander. He/she is generally an
Assistant City Manager, and can be the Police Chief or Fire Battalion Chief depending
on immediate staffing. needs. The Operations Section Chief is also a member of the
Policy Decision Group and is also responsible for the management of all operations
directly applicable to the emergency. The Operations Section Chief assists in the
development and execution of the Incident Action Plan, in addition, approves all
requests for Mutual Aid and other resources.
Fire and Rescue/Medical
The Fire and Rescue/Medical Unit's primary mission is the prevention, suppression and
control of fires and medical response. In addition, and as personnel permits, it supports
medical treatment at Fire Stations, Disaster Care Locations and conducts rescue
operations with the assistance of Maintenance and Engineering Services and other
outside agencies as required for heavy rescue.
The Medical Unit's function is a liaison position and may be assigned to a fire fighter or
other Operations Section worker. They will determine the medical need of the City and
coordinate with the Riverside County Emergency Operations Center for the appropriate
medical response. It is essential that the Medical Unit maintain an ongoing liaison
between the City of Palm Desert Emergency Operations Center and Riverside County's
Emergency Operations Center.
Law Enforcement
The Law Enforcement Unit's mission is to provide warning information, evacuate
citizens, and provide traffic control and security. Law Enforcement also enforces
temporary rules and laws, controls crime and looting and assists the coroner in the
identification of remains and in the operation of a temporary morgue.
Maintenance and Engineering
The Maintenance and Engineering Unit's mission is to coordinate all public works,
heavy rescue, engineering and utilities activities. In addition, Maintenance and
Engineering Units inspect bridges, overpasses, underpasses and other infrastructure for
damage.
Damage Assessment
The Damage Assessment Unit's assignment is to provide an overall inspection of the
City and to prepare a damage assessment report for the Incident Commander.
Additionally, this unit maintains ongoing communications between field units and the
members of the Damage Assessment Unit in the Emergency Operations Center and
keeps all information and intelligence current, complete and correct.
September 2005
Page 6 of 98.
The Planning Section
The Planning Section is under the supervision of the Planning Section Chief. Some of
the duties and responsibilities of the Planning Section are the gathering and analysis of
all data regarding the incident and the assigned resources. In addition, the Planning
Section is also responsible for resource status, developing alternatives for tactical
operations, conducting the planning meetings, and assisting in the preparation of the
Incident Action Plan for the overall operation. The following functions and units are in
the Planning Section:
A. Situation Analysis
B. Resource Status
C. Documentation
D. Other Technical Specialists
Planning Section Chief
The Planning Section is managed by the Planning Section Chief, who is responsible for
collecting, evaluating, disseminating and forecasting information relative to the
emergency for the purpose of assisting the Incident Commander and the Policy
Decision Group in the development of an Incident Action Plan.
Situation Analysis
The Situation Analysis Unit's primary role is to collect and process all information and
intelligence. In addition, Situation Analysis will evaluate and disseminate information for
display in the EOC, the recording of operations, and acting as a resource to the
Planning Section Chief.
Situation Analysis Support Staff
The Situation Analysis and Support Staff are assembled as needed and are flexible in
operation. It may include Resource Status activities that collate information from
Damage Assessment, Situation Analysis, Fire & Rescue, Law Enforcement and various
other sources. Once this information is gathered, under the supervision of Situation
Analysis, Resource Status will post and keep current all information on the status
display boards and maps in the Emergency Operations Center. It may include a
Documentation Unit to record all events and operations. In addition, the unit maintains
and files all EOC messages, maintains an official history of the emergency to ensure
complete documentation for the purpose of recovery of funds, and provides necessary
guidance to members of the EOC for individual workstation documentation procedures.
Technical Specialists may be needed to act as an advisory resource providing expert
information in the development of an Incident Action Plan. Some areas of expertise
might be hazardous materials incidents, radiological incidents, or other emergencies
where specialized information is required.
September 2005
Page 7 of 98
The Logistics Section
The Logistics Section, under the supervision of the Logistics Section Chief, arranges
resources including Mutual Aid, manages volunteer personnel and also arranges and
coordinates facilities for the emergency team and for the public, transportation, supplies,
equipment, fuel, food and other related needs as required. The Logistics Section is
made up of the following functions and units:
A. Personnel (Volunteers/COPS/Daycare/ID Systems/Compensation and Claims)
B. Supply
C. Waste Disposal
D. Transportation
E. Care and Shelter and Animal Rescue
F. Coroner
G. Utilities
H. EOC and Civic Center Facilities Operation and Restoration
I. Information Technology and GIS Services
J. Dispatch Manager/Switchboard/Communications/RACES
The Logistics Section Chief
The Logistics Section Chief manages all functions and units of the Logistics Section,
and coordinates the provision of personnel, materials and facilities as required to
mitigate the emergency.
Personnel (Volunteers/COPS/Daycare/ID Systems/Compensation and Claims)
The Personnel Unit provides direction and control to convergent volunteer workers and
fills the personnel needs of the Operations Section upon request. The personnel issues
involve determining which City employees are available for emergency team duty and
which are present. It also coordinates the intake of volunteers and identifies activities
they can perform. Citizens on Patrol volunteers may be available, so their activities can
also be coordinated. Employees may wish to keep their children close by, and
organizing child care to assist them is important to keep .emergency response teams
staffed. This group will also generate ID badges as necessary for members of the
emergency team and volunteers. Tracking employee time is an important operation in
conjunction with the finance group. Any incidents involving the employees, or
volunteers that may lead to a claim are to be handled and processed by this group as
well.
Supply
The Supply Unit provides all tangible products that may be required during an
emergency that are not related to transportation or personnel. Some examples would be
shovels, rain gear, food, etc.
September 2005
Page 8 of 98
Waste Disposal
The Waste Disposal Unit is a source of information on, and coordinator for, the timely
disposal of waste and debris generated by the emergency. Depending on the
circumstances, the waste may be hazardous or non -hazardous according to State and
Federal regulations and must be handled accordingly.
Transportation
The Transportation Unit provides and maintains any City vehicle, (with the exception of
Fire and Law Enforcement equipment), which may be required to be used during the
emergency. These vehicles may include cars, trucks, buses, heavy equipment, fixed
and rotary wing aircraft, and any other equipment as required. This group also
coordinates refueling operations for all City vehicles that operate on gas, CNG, or other
type of fuel. Fire and Police resources will be requested using the Mutual Aid
Agreements through the Operations Section Chief.
Care and Shelter
The Care & Shelter Unit provides shelter to all homeless and displaced persons
resulting from the emergency. The temporary shelters may be set up in any of the
designated Red Cross shelter sites or schools. In addition, a temporary shelter may be
set up in the Palm Desert Community Center or other City facilities for the sheltering of
the Emergency Operations Center personnel, firefighters, police officers, maintenance
and engineering personnel, and other City employees. Pets and animals are not
allowed in human shelters, so this activity also includes coordinating animal rescue and
shelter with local animal rescue and shelter organizations.
Coroner
The County Coroner is the Riverside County Sheriff and his designee. The Coroner
Unit is staffed with personnel from the Palm Desert Police Department supplemented as
needed with volunteers from the funeral homes within the City of Palm Desert. Working
as a team, the mission of the Coroner Unit is acting at the direction of the Riverside
County Coroner through a liaison, to identify and catalogue the remains of deceased
persons and remove them to a Fatality Collection Area or temporary morgue.
Utilities
The Utilities Unit provides an ongoing source of information to the Damage Assessment
and Situation Analysis Units on the current status of electrical power, natural gas, cable
television and telephone communication capabilities within the City of Palm Desert.
Based on this information, the Incident Commander will direct, as available, Southern
California Edison, Coachella Valley Water District, Southern California Gas Company,
Verizon, Time Warner Cable, and any other utilities to restore service in any given area
of the City.
September 2005
Page 9 of 98
EOC and Civic Center Facilities Operation and Restoration
The EOC Facilities Operation and Restoration team will keep the Civic Center offices
operating as best they can under the circumstances. Issues of concern are back-up
power generator and water supplies for the building. Clean up of the building may be
organized with a building restoration contractor. Debris may need to be cleared to allow
the Emergency Team to operate. Food and drinks may need to be coordinated and if
necessary, temporary sanitation facilities.
Information Technology and GIS Services
The Information Technology Services Unit is responsible for restoring as much
computer operation as possible at the desktop level and at the internal network level.
They will seek to maintain effective computer and internet applications during an
emergency situation where electricity, phone, and cable service may be intermittent.
They are also responsible for opening and maintaining channels of communication via
email and other electronic means for emergency services personnel who must operate
their computers remotely from the EOC Systems back-ups and restoration files are
operated as necessary. GIS services may be needed to operate mapping applications
during emergency operations.
Dispatch Manager/Switchboard/Communications/Radio Amateur Civil Emergency
Service (RACES)
The Dispatch Manager and this team coordinate communication systems with the
Emergency Operations Center. Working with the Logistics Section Chief, the Dispatch
Managers will ensure that all field operations are in communication with the EOC and
their activities are coordinated with Operations needs and, meeting Logistics direction.
Modes of communication available to the Emergency team include the standard radios,
amateur radio (RACES), family frequency walkie-talkie, satellite phone, and Nextel cell
phones. Switchboard operations will coordinate with both the EOC and the Public
Information Officer (PIO). RACES, is a group of volunteer amateur radio operators who
provide emergency communications when other means of communications are out of
service, nonexistent, or otherwise not available. These personnel are not primarily City
employees.
The Finance Section
The Finance Section provides for the tracking of the time worked by all emergency
personnel involved in the incident, provides cost analysis and projections, and records
all injury claims for compensation. The Finance Section Chief who normally is the
Director of Finance manages the Finance Section. The Finance Section Chief will
establish the need for specific functions within the Finance Section.
September 2005
Page 10 of 98
The Finance Section is made up of the following functions and units:
A. Cost
B. Time
C. Compensation and Claims
D. Recovery
Finance Section Chief
The Finance Section Chief provides supervision to members of the Finance Section and
manages all financial aspects of the emergency. In addition, he/she manages the
receipt of claims for compensation against the City from members of the general public.
Cost
The Cost Unit provides the projected cost of supplies and materials to support the
emergency. In addition, it collects all cost data, performs cost-effectiveness analysis
and provides cost estimates and cost saving recommendations.
Time
The Time Unit maintains records of all personnel time worked at the emergency, which
includes all volunteers that may or may not be previously registered as Disaster Service
Workers.
Compensation and Claims
The Compensation and Claims Unit manages all legal claims for compensation filed
against the City of Palm Desert. It accepts as the official agent for the City, all legal
claims resulting from damage and personal injury. In addition, it provides counsel to the
Incident Commander upon request and provideslegal counsel in areas of claims for
bodily injury and property damage compensation presented to the City of Palm Desert.
Recovery
The Recovery Unit will be a contractor responsible for the establishment of the Disaster
Assistance Centers (DAC's), which should be co -located within or near selected shelter
sites. Recovery Unit will assist displaced or homeless persons with the proper
documentation to qualify them for State and Federal disaster assistance. Recovery will
coordinate closely with Care and Shelter, Red Cross, and State and Federal agencies.
They will also assist in building and safety functions that will allow rebuilding to occur as
rapidly as possible. The Recovery Unit contractor will be managed by the Building &
Safety Director.
September 2005
Page 11 of 98
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL
DISASTER PREPARATION AND RESPONSE
SUPERVISOR: Mayor of Palm Desert
WORKSTATION: Selected Convening Location
General Duties
The Palm Desert City Council's responsibilities are to enact emergency ordinances and
resolutions, make legislative decisions on the disaster response and recovery, and to
provide political and public relations guidance to the Palm Desert community residents
affected by the disaster.
Their need to convene is based on the severity of a disaster and the Palm Desert
community's response to it. Generally, the Palm Desert City: Council will not need to
convene in a Level 1 or Level 2 emergency, although the Mayor or the Incident
Commander has the prerogative to convene should the Mayor or the Incident
Commander deem it necessary. During a Level 1 or a Level 2 event the Incident
Commander can inform the various City Council members at their homes or through an
established protocol. In a Level 3 event, the Palm Desert City Council will convene as
part of the disaster response. This requires establishment of a protocol to avoid
duplication of communications, so that the Incident Commander may focus and control
the incident response.
Good planning requires that the Palm Desert City Council establish a protocol that will
include all the needed flexibility for the Council and the other governmental board
members. Included in the protocol will be locations where the Palm Desert City Council
members should report and convene as a part of a Level 3 disaster event response.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
1. The Palm Desert City Council must establish and maintain a flexible
communication and convening protocol.
2. Select a Policy Decision Group Liaison.
ACTION CHECKLIST
During a Level 3 event or when the Mayor deems it necessary, the Palm Desert City
Council will be prepared to do the following:
1. Report to Palm Desert City Hall.
2. Set up communications linkage (i.e., telephone, cellular phone, Internet E-Mail).
September 2005
Page 12 of 98
3. Receive status reports from the Incident Commander.
4. Relay status reports from the Incident Commander to all Council Members.
5. Receive a status report from the Press Officer.
6. Be prepared to respond to the status report.
7. Be prepared to convene the City Council.
8. Be prepared to declare a local state of emergency.
9. Be prepared to enact emergency legislation and ordinances.
10. Be prepared to authorize expenditures.
11. Be prepared to contact and speak with State and Federal officials (i.e., State
Assembly person, State Senator, Governor, Congress person and Senator,
President).
12. Be prepared to speak to the Palm Desert community.
13. Be prepared to speak to the press, when appropriate, utilizing the EOC Media
Center, or other appropriate location.
September 2005
Page 13 of 98
INCIDENT COMMANDER
SUPERVISOR: City Council
ASSISTANTS: Alternates as designated
WORKSTATION: EOC-Incident Command or Normal Workstation
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Serve as Incident Commander in charge of Emergency Services for the City.
2. Makes executive decisions.
3. Makes rules, regulations, and orders.
4. Manages, controls and directs the Emergency Organization.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Serves as the overall commander of the City of Palm Desert's Emergency Response
effort.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from Police Group and
Command Staff.
2. Depending on the type of the incident and the information available, implement
partial or full activation of the EOC.
3. Determine if all key personnel or alternates are in the EOC or have been notified.
4. Appoint and brief Section Chiefs as required:
A. Operations Section Chief
B. Planning Section Chief
C. Logistics Section Chief
D. Finance Section Chief
5. Assess the situation, define problems, and establish priorities.
6. Determine the need for evacuation.
7. Estimate the incident duration.
8. Determine if there is a need to make an "Emergency Declaration."
September 2005
Page 14 of 98
9. Establish the frequency of briefing sessions.
10. Develop overall strategy with the Policy Decision Group, Command Staff and
Section Chiefs.
11. Establish operational work periods for all Emergency Operations Center and field
personnel (12-hour shifts are recommended).
12.Designate a liaison to the following:
A. Riverside County Emergency Operations Center -Indio
B. City Council Members of the City of Palm Desert
13.Develop an Incident Action Plan with the assistance of the Policy Decision
Group, Command Staff and Section Chiefs.
14.Establish periodic briefing sessions with the entire Policy Decision Group and
Command Staff to update the overall situation.
15.Develop a public information briefing with the Public Information Officer.
16.Notify Riverside County Office of Emergency Services to request additional
resources as deemed necessary (except Fire and Police Mutual Aid).
17.Review and approve all requests for outside resources and Mutual Aid.
18.Establish communications as required. Full mobilization of all radio
communications would include:
A. Palm Desert Police/Sheriff
B. Riverside County Fire
C. Maintenance/Engineering Division
D. Building Inspection
E. RACES
F. Page Alert
G. Coachella Community Disaster Net
H. Riverside County Disaster Net
I. Open frequency walkie-talkies (Civic Center range only)
19.Identify needs for coordinating EOC functions with the neighboring communities,
Riverside County, State and Federal Emergency Organizations.
20.If there is little or no damage to the City of Palm Desert, be prepared to provide
Mutual Aid to other jurisdictions if the emergency is region wide.
September 2005
Page 15 of 98
21. Confirm the assignment of a representative from the Sheriff's Department or the
Civil Air Patrol to obtain information for Situation Analysis, Policy Decision Group,
Operations Section, Fire & Rescue/Medical, Law Enforcement, and Maintenance
and Engineering. Report to Damage Assessment.
22. Using the EOC kit at the Incident Commander workstation, maintain all required
records, and documentation to support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 16 of 98
EMERGENCY SERVICES OFFICER
SUPERVISOR: Incident Commander
WORKSTATION: EOC-Incident Command or Normal Workstation
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Serve as advisor to the Incident Commander and Policy Decision Group and
Command Staff.
2. Serve as advisor to, and act on behalf of, the Incident Commander in all matters
that require a command decision.
3. Provide information, answer questions, direct and coordinate members of the
Policy Decision Group, Command Staff, Section Chiefs and workstation staff.
4. May be temporarily assigned to serve in any of the Command Section positions
as assigned by the Incident Commander.
EMERGENCY SERVICES OFFICER
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Provide assistance to the Incident Commander in all areas of the emergency. Maintain
contact with the Liaison Officer at Riverside County EOC and provide direction in all
matters that require a command decision from the Incident Commander. In addition, act
in any of the Command Section positions as required.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Policy Decision Group
and Command Staff.
2. Assess the emergency and provide advice to the Incident Commander as to the
extent of activation of the EOC.
3. Assist the Incident Commander in filling needed workstation personnel.
4. Provide assistance and information to Section Chiefs as required.
5. Working with the Policy Decision Group and Command Staff, assist the Incident
Commander in the development of an overall strategy.
A. Assess the situation.
B. Define the problem.
C. Establish priorities.
September 2005
Page 17 of 98
D. Determine the need for evacuation.
E. Estimate the incident duration.
F. Determine if there is a need to make an "Emergency Declaration".
6. Assist in the formulation of the Incident Action Plan by the Planning Section
Chief.
7. Working with members of the Policy Decision Group and Command Staff, assist
in the development of an Incident Action Plan.
8. Assist in the execution of the Incident Action Plan.
9. Facilitate and attend periodic briefing sessions conducted by the Incident
Commander.
10.Act as or appoint a liaison for the City of Palm Desert to Riverside County Office
of Emergency Services, make all necessary notifications to Riverside County
EOC for Mutual Aid.
11. Check to ensure that all necessary communications have been established.
12. Fill Safety officer role, responsible for monitoring and assessing safety hazards
or unsafe situations for responding resources, and for developing measures for
ensuring personnel safety or delegate an appropriate designee.
13.Coordinate all EOC functions with neighboring jurisdictions, Riverside County,
State and Federal emergency and support organizations.
14.Coordinate with representatives from cooperating and assisting agencies.
15. Using the EOC kit at the Incident Commander workstation, maintain all required
records and documentation to support thehistory of the emergency.
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005•
Page 18 of 98
POLICY DECISION GROUP
SUPERVISOR: Incident Commander
WORKSTATION: EOC-Incident Command or City Council Offices
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Provide special technical expertise to the Incident Commander.
2. Working as a team, formulate the strategy and Incident Action Plan.
3. Act as a resource and provide possible mitigation plans to the Incident
Commander.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Working as a team, assess the incident and provide assistance in the development of a
strategy and an Incident Action Plan.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Command Staff.
2. Assign available personnel to assist you at the Incident Commander workstation.
3. Working with the Incident Commander and the Command Staff, develop an
overall strategy.and an Incident Action Plan.
A. Assess the situation.
B. Define the problem.
C. Establish priorities.
D. Determine the need for evacuation.
E. Estimate the incident duration.
4. Attend all meetings called by the Incident Commander.
5. Assist in the implementation of the Incident Action Plan.
6. Advise the Incident Commander as required of the need for Riverside County
Mutual Aid.
7. Advise the Incident Commander as required of the need for additional resources.
8. In the event of a sustained emergency:
A. Ensure that all workstation positions are filled.
B. Provide a scheduled change of personnel to the Emergency Operations
Center.
September 2005
Page 19 of 98
9. If there is little or no damage to the City of Palm Desert, be prepared to provide
Mutual Aid to other jurisdictions if the emergency is region wide.
10. Using the EOC kit at the Incident Commander workstation, maintain all required
records and documentation to support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 20 of 98
SUPERVISOR:
WORKSTATION:
LEGAL OFFICER
Incident Commander
EOC-Incident Command
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Advise the Incident Commander on legal requirements of the City of Palm Desert
during an emergency.
2. Prepare legal documents and provide legal services as required.
3. Maintain legal information, records and reports relative to the emergency.
4. May fill assignments within the Council Staff as required by the Incident
Commander.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Advise the Incident Commander on the legal requirements of the City of Palm Desert
during the emergency.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Identify yourself as the Legal Officer by putting on the vest with your title.
2. Read the entire Action Checklist.
3. Obtain a situation briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Incident
Commander.
4. Establish areas of legal responsibility and/or potential liabilities.
5. Appoint and brief staff as necessary.
6. Prepare proclamations, emergency ordinances and other legal documents as
required by the City Council and the Incident Commander.
7. Advise the City Council, Incident Commander, and the Command Staff on the
legality and/or implications of contemplated emergency actions and policies.
8. Develop the rules and regulations and laws required for acquisition and/or control
of critical resources.
9. Develop the necessary ordinances and regulations to provide a legal basis for
evacuation of citizens.
September 2005
Page 21 of 98
10.Commence such civil and criminal proceedings as are necessary and
appropriate to implement and enforce emergency actions.
11.As needed, prepare documents relative to the demolition of hazardous structures
or conditions.
12.Using the EOC kit at the Incident Commander workstation, maintain all required
records and documentation to support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty
Precise information is essential to meet requirements for reimbursement by the State
and Federal Government.
September 2005
Page 22 of 98
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
SUPERVISOR: Incident Commander
WORKSTATION: EOC-Incident Command
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Prepares and disseminates Emergency Public Information.
2. Keep the public informed on a timely basis during a threatened or actual
emergency through the use of the media or other available means.
3. Maintain a relationship with the media representatives and hold periodic press
conferences as required.
4. Provide rumor control.
5. Provide information to the Policy Decision Group and Incident Commander and
members of the Command Staff.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Formulate and release information about the emergency to the news media and other
appropriate agencies.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing from the Policy Decision Group and Command Staff.
2. Assess the situation.
3. Prepare an initial information summary as soon as possible after arrival.
4. Issue warnings about unsafe areas, structures and/or facilities.
5. Observe constraints on the release of information imposed by the Policy Decision
Group and Command Staff.
6. Obtain approval for the release of all information from the Incident Commander
or designated representative.
7. Establish necessary contacts with the media (newspapers, radio, television) and
provide whatever assistance is required.
8. Utilize the Media Center in the EOC or identify another location for presenting to
the media.
September 2005
Page 23 of 98
9. Gather and disseminate instructions, warnings and announcements.
10.Arrange for necessary workspace and staffing for the news media.
11. Provide approved information for release to the news media.
12.Issue news bulletins.
13.Arrange for transportation and liaison personnel for media and VIP's.
14.Attend all meetings in the Command Staff Conference Room to update news
bulletins and media news releases.
15.Arrange meetings between the media and emergency personnel and/or
members of the City Council as appropriate for the emergency situation or status
of the emergency.
16. Monitor television and radio transmissions.
17. Coordinate Riverside County OES for the EAS or other communication systems
to issue warnings.
18. Respond to special requests for information.
19. Establish and assign staff to operate a rumor control hotline if necessary.
20. Provide information to public on available transportation routes, closures, etc.
21. Publicize an official list of disaster assistance centers and shelter sites.
22. Ensure that announcements and information are translated for special
populations.
23. Using the EOC kit at the Incident Commander workstation, maintain all required
records and documentation to support the history of the emergency:
A. Message received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page24of98
OPERATIONS SECTION CHIEF
SUPERVISOR: Incident Commander
WORKSTATION: EOC-Operations
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Implement the Incident Action Plan.
2. Manage the Operations Section.
3. Directly supervise the operations of the EOC.
4. Assume operational command.
5. Evaluate and act on operational information.
6. Establish a priority of actions that must be taken.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Coordinate emergency operation functions of • the Operations Section, Fire &
Rescue/Medical, Law Enforcement, .Maintenance and Engineering, Liaison Officer,
Damage Assessment. Activate the Operations element of the Palm Desert Area
Disaster Plan.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing from the Policy Decision Group and Command Staff.
2. Evaluate field conditions associated with the emergency. •Determine the
resources committed and coordinate with Situational Analysis.
3. Develop the Incident Action Plan.
4. Assign and brief operations personnel on implementing the Incident Action
Plan.
5. Coordinate with the Riverside County EOC or secondary EOC in Indio.
6. Brief the Policy Decision Group and the Command Staff as necessary.
7. Coordinate the activities of all the departments and agencies involved in the
operation.
8. Determine the needs and request more resources when necessary.
9. Establish field communications with affected area(s).
September 2005
Page 25 of 98
10.Assign specific work tasks to various units of the Operations Section as required.
11. Determine resources that are committed or available.
12.Receive, evaluate and disseminate emergency information through the P10.
13. Determine the need for additional resources. Make recommendations to the
Incident Commander.
14. Establish a priority board restoration plan. to assist facilities, i.e., hospitals,
shelters, schools:etc. Coordinate with Law Enforcement.
15.Using the Operations Section EOC kit, maintain all .required records and
docuinentation to support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 26 of 98
FIRE AND RESCUE / MEDICAL
SUPERVISOR: Operations Section Chief
WORKSTATION: Field Operations
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Prevent, control and suppress fires.
2. Conduct rescue operations with the assistance of the Maintenance Division when
heavy rescue is required.
3. Update and brief Operations Section Chief.
4. Support emergency medical treatment at Fire Stations and Disaster Medical
Cache Locations.
5. Isolate and control releases of hazardous materials.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Coordinate all fire field forces and to establish needs and to provide necessary
resources.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Operations Section
Chief.
2. Assess the impact of the emergency on the Fire & Rescue/Medical operations
capability.
3. Check the status of Fire Apparatus, availability and deployment.
4. Advise the Incident Commander of the current situation as required.
5. Locate and have available for use, all personnel lists and work schedules.
6. Check with the other Operations Section Units for a briefing on the status of the
emergency:
A. Law Enforcement
B. Liaison County EOC
C. Maintenance and Engineering
D. Damage Assessment
7. Coordinate all Fire & Rescue/Medical activities with the other units of the
Operations Section and the Operations Section Chief.
September 2005
Page 27 of 98
8. Determine if the water system is functional for fire fighting.
9. Advise the Division Supervisors of the Incident Action Plan. Advise what
limitations or restrictions exist.
10. Order of priority for the emergency:
A. Fire and rescue.
B. Hazardous material releases, which may immediately impact a large
segment of the City.
C. Medical support.
11.Conduct search and rescue operations. The Division Supervisors are in charge
of this operation and will request additional resources, as they deem necessary
from other City Departments. This will be coordinated through the Operations
Section Chief and the Logistics Section Chief.
12.Assist in the evacuation of the injured victims to First Aid Facilities, Casualty
Collection Points or Hospitals. Coordinate with the Medical Liaison Position in the
Operations Section.
13. Determine if current and forecasted weather conditions will complicate large and
intense fires, hazardous material releases, major medical incidents and/or other
potential problems.
14. Using the appropriate Incident Command System (ICS) forms at the Operations
or Fire & Rescue/Medical workstation, maintain all required records and
documentation to support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 28 of 98
MEDICAL
SUPERVISOR: Operations Section Chief
WORKSTATION: Field Operations
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Assess the emergency and determine the extent of medical casualties.
2. Establish communication and work in cooperation with the Riverside County
EMS MED NET.
3. Coordinate resources for the medical needs of the City and multi- casualty
functions of the emergency.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Coordinate all medicalrequirements for the City of Palm Desert. Establish needs and
provide resources.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing from the Operations Section Chief.
2. Determine your responsibilities under the Incident Action Plan.
3. Execute your responsibilities under the Incident Action Plan.
4. Coordinate all activities with the Operations Section Chief and consult with other
units within the Operations Section to assess the situation.
A. Law Enforcement
B. Maintenance and Engineering
C. Damage Assessment
5. Establish radio contact with Riverside County MED NET. Coordinate all requests
for additional medical assistance through Riverside County MED NET.
6. Update and brief the Fire & Rescue/Medical unit.
7. Follow the guidelines as set forth in the Riverside County Medical Protocols.
8. Assess the situation and determine the following:
A. Location and nature of the emergency.
B. Approximate number of injuries and/or dead.
C. Best response route.
September 2005
Page 29 of 98
D. Need for medical assistance.
E. Triage teams.
F. Treatment teams.
G. Red Cross.
H. Blood banks.
I. Staging areas.
J. Emergency medical treatment facilities.
K. First aid stations.
L. Casualty collection points.
M. Fatality collection points.
N. Other resources.
9. Other pertinent information, such as hazardous materials incidents.
10. Designate Division Supervisors and set up a command post with Fire & Rescue.
11.Identify Division Supervisors by geographic areas, i.e., Division East, Division
West.
12.Assign an incident Safety Officer to observe personnel safety and to report to the
Operations Section Chief as soon as possible on any injuries and/or deaths.
13.Alert the appropriate local hospital to prepare to receive casualties as required.
14. Establish and announce over the MED NET the location of Staging Areas,
Casualty Collection Points and Fatality Collection Points to Ambulance
personnel.
15. Notify the Riverside County Red Cross of the following:
A. Casualties.
B. Shelter needs for casualties.
C. Needs for additional resources.
D. Appropriate reaction time to establish emergency facilities.
16.Determine the need to establish Casualty Collection Points, and/or First Aid
Stations. Coordinate this with the Care & Shelter Unit in the Logistics Section.
17.Determine the need to establish Emergency Medical Treatment Facilities.
18.Coordinate with Care & Shelter Unit.
A. Arrange for coordination of medically trainedcivilian volunteers.
B. Arrange for the coordination of vocationally trained medical personnel.
C. Establish ingress and egress traffic patterns for ambulances, fire
equipment, and other authorized emergency vehicles.
September 2005
Page 30 of 98
D. Coordinate with Law Enforcement, relative to the assignment of Law
Enforcement personnel as needed for the emergency transportation of
medical teams and emergency medical supplies.
19.Coordinate the following with the Law Enforcement unit:
A. Traffic flow.
B. Crowd control.
C. Security perimeter (as required).
20. Review the current situation:
A. Determine the intensity of the incident and the impact on the Incident
Action Plan.
B. Advise all medical personnel to intensify, stabilize, or demobilize as
required.
21. Using the Operations or Fire & Rescue/Medical EOC kit, maintain all required
records and documentation to support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 31 of 98
LAW ENFORCEMENT
SUPERVISOR: Operations Section Chief
WORKSTATION: EOC Operations or Normal Workstation
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Enforce laws and temporary rules and provide security for citizens.
2. Receive and disseminate warning information:
3. Direct evacuation of citizens, control traffic as necessary.
4. Assist the Riverside County Coroner's Office in the identification of remains and
the operation of a temporary morgue.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Protect lives and property, enforce laws and proclaimed orders, control traffic, assist the
coroner, and combat crime.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Operations Section
Chief.
2. Confirm the assignment of a representative from the Sheriffs Department or the
Civil Air Patrol to maintain information for Situation Analysis, Policy Decision
Group, Operations Section, Fire & Rescue/Medical, Law Enforcement,
Maintenance and Engineering, and Damage Assessment.
3. Assess the situation relative to Law Enforcement needs.
4. Identify Division Supervisors by geographic areas, i.e., Division East, Division
West.
5. Coordinate all Law Enforcement activities with the other units in the Operations
Section and the Operations Section Chief. Consult with other Operations units to
assess the situation.
A. Fire & rescue/medical.
B. Liaison County EOC.
C. Maintenance and engineering.
C. Damage assessment.
6. Check personnel schedules and assess needs for the emergency.
September 2005
Page 32 of 98
7. Alert Law Enforcement personnel and initiate recall procedure as required.
8. Determine if all key Law Enforcement personnel or their alternates are in the
EOC or have been notified.
9. Assess the impact of the emergency on the Law Enforcement operational
capability.
10. Provide search for:
A. All potential shelter sites (designated Red Cross shelter sites, high
schools, middle schools, elementary schools, churches).
B. Casualty Collection Points (to be determined).
D. Disaster Medical Cache (location as identified by the Coachella Valley
Regional Resource Guide).
11. Request additional Law Enforcement personnel resources through the Riverside
County Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Coordinator. Coordinate with the Logistics
Section Chief.
12. Keep the Operations Section Chief, Planning Section Chief, and Resource Status
advised as to what resources are presently committed and what resources are
still available.
13. Establish communication with the Operations Section in the Riverside County
EOC Law Enforcement Unit, and other local agencies.
14. Move emergency vehicles to open areas in case of earthquake or aftershocks.
15.Appoint Division Supervision; i.e., Division East, Division West.
16.Advise Division Supervisors if any limitations or restrictions exist.
17.Coordinate multi -scene incidents.
18.Assign a Safety Officer to observe personnel safety and to relay all personnel
casualty information to the Operations Section Chief as soon as possible after an
injury or death.
19. Confirm that the flow of information to the Division Supervision is ongoing.
20.Order an immediate general survey of the disaster area(s) by field units.
Particular attention will be given to assess the extent of the area(s) involved and
reporting this information to the Planning Section (refer to Disaster Operation
Guide for specific assignments).
September 2005
Page 33 of, 98
21.Check facilities that contain hazardous materials (refer to the Riverside County
Office of Environmental Health).
22. Prepare to evacuate areas of the City that have suffered severe damage or life
threatening hazards.
23.Conduct and coordinate selective and voluntary evacuations to open Red Cross
authorized, staffed and pre -designated shelters (refer to the City of Palm Desert
Shelter Map for designated shelter sites).
24. Prepare to screen traffic coming into the City, especially into dangerous areas.
25. Request barricades and/or other needed supplies from Maintenance and
Engineering.
26. Direct and/or manage evacuation in coordination with the Care & Shelter Unit.
27. Establish emergency traffic routes in coordination with Maintenance and
Engineering Divisions and initiate traffic control.
28. Provide security for:
A. Evacuation Areas
i. Schools.
ii. Designated shelter sites.
iii. Fatality collection points.
B. EmergencyMedical Treatment Facilities
iv. 'Casualty collection point.
v. First aid stations.
vi. Fire stations.
vii. Disaster medical cache areas
29. Restrict access or otherwise secure areas as required by the emergency.
30. Coordinate removal and relocation of deceased persons under the direction and
liaison of the Riverside County Coroner.
31. Initiate Animal Control measures as necessary using Orphan Pet Oasis.
32.Confirm that Law Enforcement personnel needs such as feeding and sheltering
are satisfied through Care & Shelter in the Logistics Section.
33.If there is little or no damage in the City, be prepared to provide assistance to
other jurisdictions.
September 2005
Page 34 of 98
MAINTENANCE AND ENGINEERING
SUPERVISOR: Operations Section Chief
WORKSTATION: EOC-Operations
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Brief and update the Operations Section Chief or the Incident Commander as
required.
2. Coordinate all activities with the Operations Section Chief.
3. Brief the Maintenance and Engineering staff.
4. Supervise the Maintenance and Engineering Unit of the Operations Section.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Coordinate all Maintenance and Engineering activities in the EOC.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing or preliminary survey of the damaged area(s) to develop
complete information for Situation Analysis.
2. Check telephones and city -owned radios to ensure proper operation.
3. Confirm the assignment of a representative from Maintenance and Engineering
to rendezvous with a fixed wing aircraft to survey the City from the air to maintain
information for Situation Analysis, Policy Decision Group, Operations Section,
Fire & Rescue/Medical, and Law Enforcement. Report to Damage Assessment.
4. Check the Maintenance and Engineering personnel list and work schedule.
Initiate a call back as required.
5. Confirm that all key Maintenance and Engineering personnel or alternates are in
the EOC or have been notified.
6. Assess the impact of the disaster on the Maintenance and Engineering
operational capability.
7. Identify Division Supervisors by geographic area, i.e., Division East, Division
West.
September 2005
Page 35 of 98
8. Set Maintenance and Engineering priorities based on the nature of the
emergency to assist in the development and execution of an Incident Action
Plan.
9. Set up Situation Map and Incident Log.
10. Brief and update the Incident Commander of all Mainteriarice and Engineering
emergency responsibilities, including priorities, plans, and resources.
11. Brief the Maintenance and Engineering staff.
12. Confirm assignment of staff to the following EOC Section Chiefs:
A. Fire & rescue/medical.
B. Law enforcement.
C. Maintenance and engineering.
D. Damage assessment.
13. Inventory the following essential City services and establish priorities for the
restoration of all essential services:
A. Electrical power.
B. Natural gas.
C. Telephone service.
D. Blocked streets.
E. Bridges.
F. Overpasses.
G. Underpasses.
H. Water system.
I. Sewer system.
J. Storm drain system.
K. Traffic signals.
14.Coordinate with other local utility districts:
A. Coachella Valley Water District
B. Southern California Edison
C. Verizon D. Imperial Irrigation
E. Time Warner Cable
F. Southern California Gas
G. Any Other Utility Services
15. Coordinate all emergency activities with other City emergency operations.
16. If there is little or no damage to the City of Palm Desert, be prepared to provide
assistance to other jurisdictions.
September 2005
Page 36 of 98
17. Using the Operations or Maintenance and Engineering EOC kit, maintain all
required records and documentation to support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 37 of 98
DAMAGE ASSESSMENT
SUPERVISOR: Operations Section Chief
WORKSTATION: EOC-Operations Coordinated with Field
GENERAL. DUTIES
1. Provide for an initial inspection of all the structures in the entire City.
2. Prepare Damage Assessment Reports.
3. Collect and report information to the Operations Section Chief.
4. Provide Damage Assessment Teams as required.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
The collection, evaluation, dissemination and use of informationrelative to Damage
Assessment in the City. State Certification in Damage Assessment (ATC-20) is
required to be assigned to this section.
Manage Building & Safety Assessment Staff: All Building and Safety Staff with
appropriate Certification.
Manage Emergency Mutual Aid. Building and Safety Contractor: All Willdan personnel
under the direction of the Director of Building and Safety and the Willdan Responsible
Individual named in Contract No. C21830.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Identify yourself as Damage Assessment by putting on the Certified Inspector
Badge with your identification code number.
2. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Operations Section
Chief.
3. Recall Building Inspectors, Code Enforcement, and Traffic Technicians as
required.
4. Prepare to receive information from Fire, Police, and Maintenance and
Engineering representatives conducting an aerial survey of the City if possible.
5. Provide for an initial .inspection of key City Locations on the established priority
list. This priority list includes:
A. Evacuation Areas
September 2005
Page 38 of 98
i. Schools.
ii. Designated shelter sites.
iii. Fatality collection points.
B. Emergency Medical Treatment Facilities
iv. Casualty collection point.
v. First aid stations.
vi. Fire stations.
vii. Disaster medical cache areas.
6. Beyond the priority list, rapidly assess the entire City and report locations of
damaged structures, utilities, roads, signaled traffic controlled intersections and
facilities.
7. Prepare the initial damage estimate of the City.
8. Collect, record and total the type and estimated value of damage.
9. Alert and activate ALL structural inspection personnel.
10. Request volunteer structural engineers to assist in the inspection of structures.
Provide Construction Services Inspectors to act as guides for the engineers.
11. Provide as required, Damage Assessment teams to survey structures and
potential shelter sites after the emergency.
12.Provide as required, Damage Assessment Teams to inspect and mark
hazardous structures and record damage. City damage records are utilized by
State and Federal Emergency Loan and Assistance Agencies as a basis for
Federal assistance money.
13. Inspect and post critically damaged structures for occupancy or condemnation
using the ATC 20 placards.
14. Initiate requests for Mutual Aid Building Inspectors and Structural Engineers
through the Logistics Section Chief.
15. Prepare a plan for utilization of Building Inspectors to ensure proper deployment
as well as a comprehensive coverage of the damaged area(s) (additional
inspectors may be obtained under Mutual Aid).
16.Coordinate with all departments for possible information on damage to
structures.
September 2005
Page 39 of 98
17.Coordinate with the following agencies for field information and Damage
Assessment Reports:
A. RACES
B. Sunline Transit, Ca!trans
C. Desert Sands Unified School District
D. Southern California Gas, SCE, Verizon, Time Warner Cable, other utilities
E. Palm Desert Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department
F. Palm Desert Fire Department
G. Palm Desert Police Department
H. Palm Desert Maintenance and Engineering Divisions
18.Inventory damaged City buildings and private buildings.
19.Using the Operations or Damage Assessment EOC kit, maintain all required
records and documentation to support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
Precise information is essential to meet requirements for reimbursement by the State
and Federal government.
September 2005
Page 40 of 98
PLANNING SECTION CHIEF
SUPERVISOR: Incident Commander
WORKSTATION: EOC PLANNING or Normal Workstation
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Manage the Planning Section in the EOC.
2. Predict and manage information about the emergency.
3. Brief and update the Command Staff and Policy Decision Group on the impact of
the emergency on the City of Palm Desert, as well as the intensity and projected
duration of the incident.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Synthesizing collected information about the present circumstances of the emergency
and creating a daily Incident Action Plan for future actions for the short term (24 hours)
and generally modifying the short term plan into an ongoing long term recovery (days to
weeks) action plan.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Command Staff/Policy
Decision Group.
2. Prepare to review information from an aerial survey for Situation Analysis.
3. Confirm that all key Planning Section personnel or alternates are in the EOC or have
been notified. Recall the required staff members necessary for the emergency:
4. Organize and assign Planning Section Units as required:
A. Situation analysis.
B. Situation support and documentation.
5. Develop Situation Analysis information on the impact of the emergency from the
following outside sources:
A. Riverside County EOC
B. Sunline Transit
C. Caltrans
D. Desert Sands Unified School District
E. Red Cross
F. RACES
September 2005
Page 41 of 98
G. Palm Desert Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department
H. Palm Desert Police Department
I. Palm Desert Fire Department
J. Palm Desert Maintenance Division
K. Local Media (radio and television)
L. Coachella Valley Water District
6. Assess the impact of the emergency on the City of Palm Desert, including the
ongoing assessment by the Damage Assessment Unit and other field operations.
7. Keep the Command Staff and Policy Decision Group advised and briefed.
8. Prepare an Incident Action Plan by priorities and objectives with the Incident
Commander and the Policy Decision Group.
9. Review intelligence information, determine the credibility and predict the influence on
the emergency.
10.Assemble information on alternative strategies.
11.Identify the need for use of special resources.
12. Provide periodic predictions on the status of the emergency.
13.Prepare and distribute Incident Commander and Command Section orders for
additional resources.
14. Confirm that Resource Status compiles and displays emergency status and
summary information.
15. Prepare summary situation reports of the emergency in the City of Palm Desert for
transmission to the Riverside County EOC.
16. Begin planning for recovery in the emergency. area(s).
17.Using the Planning EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 42 of 98
SITUATION ANALYSIS
SUPERVISOR: Planning Section Chief
WORKSTATION: EOC PLANNING or Normal Workstation
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Collect and process all information and intelligence.
2. Evaluate and disseminate information in'the Planning Section.
3. Prepare predictions at periodic intervals or upon request, and make
recommendations to the Planning Section Chief.
4. Supervise the display of the situation map and status boards.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Organize an efficient system to collect and organize accurate emergency situation and
status information. Determine the means to provide this information as needed to
Planning, Operations and Command Sections.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Planning Section
Chief.
2. Supervise and organize the available staff assigned to Situation Support and
Documentation. Some staff may be utilized to collect information directly from
the field.
3. Collect data on the emergency:
A. Location and the nature of the emergency.
B. Special hazards.
C. Number of injured persons.
D. Number of deceased persons.
E. Structural property damage (estimate a dollar value).
F. Personal property damage (estimate a dollar value).
G. City of Palm Desert resources committed to the emergency.
H. City of Palm Desert resources available.
I. Assistance provided by outside agencies and resources committed.
J. Shelters, type, location, number of people that can be accommodated.
K. Maintain access to the inventory of available personnel, equipment,
vehicles, etc. developed by the Resource Status Unit.
September 2005
Page 43 of 98
4. Develop sources of information and assist the Planning Section Chief in
collecting and organizing data from the following:
A. Command Staff
B. Operations Section
C. Logistics Section
D. Finance Section
5. Establish a system to ensure follow up contacts.
6. Determine weather conditions, current and upcoming. Keep up-to-date weather
information posted.
7. Determine the condition of all roadways and have all closures displayed.
8. Prepare situation reports and updates at timely intervals or when important
changes occur for the Planning Section Chief, and attend Planning Section
meetings as required.
9. Advise the Planning Section Chief as required.
10.Situation Summary Reports will be requested from Riverside County OES
Confirm the following information when submitting these reports:
A. Date and time.
B. Location and type of emergency.
C. Summary of the current situation.
D. Qualitative analysis (overview).
E. Critical events and problems.
F. Proclamations and declarations issued.
G. People dead and injured (all affected areas).
H. Damage totals (all affected areas).
I. Homes damaged or destroyed.
J. Hospitals damaged or destroyed.
K. Status of gas, electric, water, sewage systems and other utilities.
L. Roads, airports and railroads closed or subject to limited access.
M. Interim and estimated dollar damage totals (public and private facilities).
N. Distinguish short-term issues and long-term recovery issues
11. Be prepared to provide an additional summary of the current response.
A. State response (brief description).
B. EOC activation.
C. Shelters opened, estimated number of people in the shelter (daily and
cumulative total).
D. Disaster Assistance Centers (DAC's) opened and the number of people
processed.
September 2005
Page 44 of 98
E. Field Medical centers opened and operating.
F. Unusual or limited potable water status.
12. Using the Planning EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 45 of 98
SITUATION SUPPORT AND DOCUMENTATION
SUPERVISOR: Planning Section Chief
WORKSTATION: EOC-PLANNING, Normal Workstation or Field
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Provide all necessary support services to operate the Planning Section and
especially Situation Analysis.
2. Post and update all information on the status display boards in the Emergency
Operations Center.
3. Establish a line of communication with Fire & Rescue/Medical, Law Enforcement,
Maintenance and Engineering, and Logistics to keep the most accurate up-to-
date information posted.
4. Establish an organization and system for the collection of raw data from field
sources, and any operating communications systems and a process for collating
and summarizing the raw data for use by the Planning and Command Sections.
5. Provide technical expertise in organizing and summarizing raw data.
6. Depending on communication systems operation, travel into the field to prepare
assessments and collect information from other Emergency team field units
(such as damage assessment teams), create reports from 'the field or other
sources to Planning Section Chief and others as required.
7. Ensure that all posted information is current and correct, clear and concise.
8. Maintain and file all EOC messages.
9. File, maintain and store all documents relative to the emergency.
10. Maintain the official history of the emergency.
11. Provide guidance and assistance to workstation personnel in the documentation
process, using the appropriate forms or other paperwork.
12. Provide duplication services as required.
13.Provide information to the Planning Section Chief concerning the intensity and
projected duration of the incident.
14. Provide information to the Logistics Section Chief relative to special equipment
needs.
15.Advise the Planning Section Chief if evacuation is being required and where.
16.Acquire any special publications or research information.
17. Using the Planning EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 46 of 98
LOGISTICS SECTION CHIEF
SUPERVISOR: Incident Commander
WORKSTATION: EOC-LOGISTICS or Normal Workstation
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Procure and provide personnel, materials and facilities for City emergency
operations both in the field and in the EOC.
2. Continuously brief and update the Incident Commander.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Manage or coordinate logistical support activities that include but are not limited to
Personnel, Supply, Waste Disposal, Transportation, County Coroner, Care & Shelter,
Utilities, EOC Facilities Manager, Information Technology Services, Dispatch
Manager/RACES, and Volunteers.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Command Staff.
2. Confirm that all key Logistics Section personnel or alternates are in the EOC or
have been notified. Recall the required staff members necessary for the
emergency.
3. Organize the Logistics Section by assigning available personnel to perform the
tasks listed below.
A. Personnel
B. Volunteers
C. Citizens On Patrol (COPS)
D. Personnel ID Systems
E. Personnel Compensation and Claims
4. Ensure that personnel listed are available to perform the tasks listed below, and if
not, assign any other available City employees:
A. Supply
B. Waste Disposal/Temporary Storage Coordination
C. Transportation
D. Care & Shelter and Animal Rescue
E. Utilities
F. EOC and Civic Center Facilities Operation and Restoration
September 2005
Page 47 of 98
G. Information Technology and GIS Services
H. Dispatch Manager/Switchboard/Communications
5. Brief and update the Incident Commander of all known resources and support
concerns, including all priorities and proposed plans.
6. Assist in the development of the Incident Action Plan and prepare estimates for
Logistics needs for the next operational period.
7. Manage process of getting service and support elements of the Incident Action
Plan into operation.
8. Coordinate support operations with the Operations Section Chief to provide
facilities, services and materials in support of the Operations Section. Advise on
the current services and support capabilities.
9. Coordinate and provide all requests for resources.
10.Coordinate with Liaison personnel in the County Coroner function to ensure that
the City is aware of any support needs that function may request.
11.Coordinate with the EOC Facilities Manager to ensure that all EOC and
Information Services needs are addressed.
12. Using the Logistics EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 48 of 98
PERSONNEL (VOLUNTEERS/COPS/DAYCARE/ID SYSTEMS/
COMPENSATION AND CLAIMS)
SUPERVISOR: Logistics Section Chief
WORKSTATION: EOC LOGISTICS -Normal Workstations
Daycare Assigned Space TBD
Personnel, ID Systems and Personnel Claims Assigned Space
TBD
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Document all City personnel committed to the emergency response team both
with and without pre -assigned tasks.
2. Register all volunteers (including Citizens on Patrol) and create a process so
they can be efficiently assigned to assist sections that need additional personnel
support, which includes a process for directing any excess volunteers to the Red
Cross for Care and Shelter assistance.
3. Ensure that City Emergency Team members are documented, possess
emergency team ID and vehicle tags, and are aware of systems in place to
manage claims for injuries or other personnel issues.
4. Set up and manage a Civic Center based daycare center for the children of City
employees who are on the emergency team and who need childcare during the
emergency.
5. Document claims for injury, illness, or losses occurring as a result of emergency
team actions
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing from the Logistics Section Chief and Planning Chief.
2. If the Logistics Section Chief is not available, obtain information about personnel
needs from the Resource Unit or other means.
3. Set up and manage a location for volunteer intake and processing at Palm
Desert City Hall or other designated areas for registration and assignment
(Volunteer Staging Areas).
4. Utilize available resources, including volunteers to register Disaster Service
Volunteer Workers. Have all volunteers sign the appropriate forms prior to
allowing them to perform any work.
September 2005
Page 49 of 98
5. Determine the number and location of personnel assigned to field activities and
Civic Center sections. Create a process so that all City personnel receive
Emergency response team ID badges and are aware of the claims process for
injuries and other compensable issues.
6. Fill requests for personnel needs, identify the number of "On Duty" City
personnel available for assignment, and maintain a Personnel Resource Pool.
7. Forward all volunteer personnel time records and documentation to the Time Unit
of the Finance Section.
8. Coordinate with the Public Information Officer for public release of the location of
a registration area.
9. If requested by Logistics Chief, recruit and obtain additional Volunteer
Emergency Workers.
10.Organize and manage a childcare center at the Civic Center. If possible
coordinate with Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District for space,
personnel and activities.
11. Using the Logistics EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 50 of 98
SUPPLY
SUPERVISOR: Logistics Section Chief
WORKSTATION: LOGISTICS—EOC or Normal Workstation
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Order, receive, store, process and allocate all emergency resources and
supplies.
2. Determine the supply needs from the Logistics Section Chief.
3. Determine the status of all supply personnel, and alert Supply personnel, Mutual
Aid providers, contractors and emergency vendors of any possible needs.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Logistics Section
Chief.
2. Participate in Logistics Section planning activities.
3. Assign personnel as required to adequately staff the Supply position.
4. Research the availability of resources in the City of Palm Desert and be prepared
to report to the Logistics Section Chief.
5. Coordinate with Operations and Logistics for the organized acquisition and
utilization of equipment, vehicles, contractors and materials both under direct
contract with the City (through pre-existing and emergency contracts) and
through Mutual Aid agreements with other Cities and jurisdictions.
6. Receive and respond to requests for resources, supplies and equipment.
7. Order, receive, store, and process all disaster related resources, supplies and
equipment.
8. Maintain inventory of resources, supplies and equipment.
9. As necessary, identify, establish and maintain supply staging areas for incoming
personnel, supplies, and equipment.
10. Provide for the conservation, allocation and distribution of food stocks.
September 2005
Page 51 of 98
11.Procure, allocate and dispatch supply personnel and resources as required.
12.Coordinate with the Finance Section for the administration of all financial matters
pertaining to vendor contracts and open purchase.
13. Stockpile, maintain, deploy and reserve critical supplies and equipment.
14.Coordinate with other jurisdictions and private companies on sources of
equipment and supply (check the City of Palm Desert Resource Manual).
15.Alert Supply personnel, Mutual Aid providers, contractors and emergency
vendors of any possible needs.
16. Prepare and sign the necessary rental agreements.
17.Process all administrative paperwork associated with equipment rental and
supply contracts. Forward all this information to the Finance Section.
18.Using the Logistics EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 52 of 98
WASTE DISPOSAL
SUPERVISOR: Logistics Section Chief
WORK STATION: EOC-LOGISTICS or Normal Workstation
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Coordinate City and Public waste and debris disposal with Waste Management
of the Desert and County operations.
2. Liaison with public sector waste disposal operations.
3. Contact Riverside County Radiation Safety Officer in the event radiation is
believed to be mixed with debris.
4. Coordinate with County and local Hazardous Materials officers and contractors
for addressing hazardous waste mixed debris concerns.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Planning Section
Chief.
2. Obtain briefing on locations where significant hazardous and non -hazardous
debris may be located.
3. Prepare to receive information from Fire, Police and Maintenance and
Engineering including any representatives conducting an aerial survey of the City
if possible.
4. Acquire information to prepare ongoing reports of damaged structures, utilities,
roads, signaled traffic controlled intersections and facilities that will require
significant debris staging and removal.
5. Pay particular attention to special hazard areas such as government facilities,
schools, utilities, and other facilities where chemical or radioactive materials
might have been used or simply stored and are now mixed with debris.
6. Identify hazardous materials in need of immediate disposal and coordinate with
Operations regarding marking and isolating these areas.
7. Determine potential scheduling for waste removal for non -hazardous debris.
8. Coordinate with waste removal operators.
September 2005
Page 53 of 98
9. Coordinate with Riverside County Radiation Safety officer for removal of
radioactive contaminated debris.
10. Using the Logistics EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 54 of 98
SUPERVISOR:
WORKSATION:
TRANSPORTATION
Logistics Section Chief
EOC-Logistics
Corporation Yard
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Provide transportation for City and mutual aid workers.
2. Maintain a list of transportation resources.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Logistics
Chief.
2. Provide and maintain a resource list of transport vehicles.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
Heavy equipment
Cars
Buses
Light trucks
Heavy trucks
Fixed wing aircraft
Helicopters
3. Check fuel levels of all city facilities (indicate gas/diesel/CNG or other).
A. Police Department
B. City Corporation Yard
Section
4. Establish fuel availability from bulk fuel vendors for all fuel types and coordinate
ordering of additional supplies.
5. Establish an assembly area(s) for vehicles.
6. Provide transportation as required for City workers and mutual aid workers to and
from the emergency scene and emergency evacuation when requested.
7. Provide portable fueling systems for equipment at the scene of the emergency
for extended operations.
8. Establish a communications link with the following agencies as required:
September 2005
Page 55 of 98
A. Sunline Transit
B. Desert Sands Unified School District
C. Caltrans
9. Using the Logistics EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 56 of 98
CARE AND SHELTER AND ANIMAL RESCUE
SUPERVISOR: Logistics Section Chief
WORKSTATION: EOC-Logistics or Normal Workstation
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Liaison with Red Cross for Care and Shelter needs.
2. Provide for additional food, clothing and shelter needs of people affected by the
disaster as needed.
3. Organize and operate a central registration and inquiry service for assisting in
reuniting separated families and to respond to inquiries from relatives and friends
outside the area utilizing volunteer labor as needed.
4. Be sensitive to special needs such as cultural differences, diverse ethnic groups,
seniors, mothers with small children, individuals with special needs, etc.
5. Establish links with animal rescue services to coordinate animal reunification with
sheltering families.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Liaison with Red Cross for approved shelter and feeding. Additionally, a central
registration area shall be established to register persons affected by the emergency. To
act as a clearing house and inquiry service to reunite separated families and pets. If
necessary, provide for the emergency sheltering for out -of -area emergency workers and
mutual aid workers.
ACTION CHECKLIST
Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Logistics Section Chief.
1. Determine if mass care facilities will be needed and coordinate with the Red
• Cross regarding location and set-up.
2. When establishing shelter sites, be sensitive to special needs, such as cultural
differences, diverse ethnic groups, seniors, mothers with small children, and
individuals with special needs.
3. Arrange with Damage Assessment for the inspection of potential shelter locations
to ensure the safety of the structure.
4. Coordinate all shelter locations with the Operations Section Chief.
September 2005
Page 57 of 98
5. Coordinate with the Red Cross, Coachella Valley Recreation & Park District, and
Desert Sands Unified School District Maintenance and Operations.
6. Coordinate a central registration and inquiry system with the Red Cross.
7. Establish communications between shelter facilities and the EOC, using
telephone, City radios, or RACES (amateur radio).
8. Determine shelter site needs, including food and water. Request necessary food
supplies, equipment, and other supplies to operate shelter sites with the
coordination of the Red Cross, Coachella Valley Recreation & Park District and
Desert Sands Unified School District.
9. Activate a shelter registration, welfare inquiry system, and message board.
Report the health and welfare status of all sheltered persons to central
registration with the coordination of the Red Cross and RACES volunteers.
10.Activate a shelter system in coordination with Animal Disaster Team of the
Desert.
11. Record and evaluate information regarding requests, activities, and expenditures.
12. Report all statistical information to Situation Analysis relative to:
A. Displaced persons.
B. Shelter sites locations.
C. Type of shelter.
D. Number of people that can be accommodated.
E. Number of people at each shelter.
13.When necessary, provide for the Care & Shelter needs of City of Palm Desert
employees.
14.Using available safe public structures, provide shelter for Mutual Aid workers,
convergent volunteers and others as required.
15. Plan and provide for the feeding for Mutual Aid workers, convergent volunteers,
field personnel and others as required in coordination with the supply section.
16.Consider the special needs as required for the care of unattended children, the
aged, individuals with special needs, and the disabled.
17.Coordinate with the County EOC Liaison to determine if any public health
hazards are present in the City and in shelter areas and report to Command
Section as necessary.
September 2005
Page 58,of 98
18.Coordinate with the Transportation Unit to transport evacuees to and from
centers.
19.Coordinate with Sunline Transit regarding use of buses for portable temporary
"cooling centers".
20. Relocate any mass care facilities, which become endangered by any hazardous
conditions.
21. Using the Logistics EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 59 of 98
CORONER LIASON
SUPERVISOR: Logistics Section Chief
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Coordinate with the Riverside County Coroner, the identification and
documentation of deceased persons.
2. Provide resources for the Riverside County Coroner and local mortuary
personnel in removing remains from emergency scenes.
3. Maintain communications with field units and relay ongoing status of the
emergency to the Coroner in Riverside County EOC.
4. Act on behalf of the. Riverside County Coroner in the event that the Riverside
County Coroner is unable to respond to an emergency in the City of Palm Desert.
5. Maintain a communications link between field operations, City of Palm Desert
EOC and Riverside County Coroner in the Riverside County Indio EOC.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Logistics Section
Chief.
2. Establish Coroner Field Teams, each team to consist of one local mortuary
worker and a Palm Desert Police Department officer.
3. Gather as much information as possible as to the activities of the Coroner Field
Teams.
4. Establish radio contact with Coroner Field Teams.
5. Report all field activities to the Coroner in the Riverside County EOC.
6. Establish a temporary morgue.
7. Coordinate all information relative to deceased, persons with Central Registration.
8. Casualty information regarding law enforcement,fire department, and other
involved agencies shall be segregated from other casualty information.
9. Establish liaison with the American Red Cross. Refer casualty inquiries to Central
Registration.
10.Obtain a list of hospitals, evacuation centers, temporary first aid stations, and
morgue facilities.
September 2005
Page 60 of 98
11. Establish liaison with local mortuaries for pickup and transportation of bodies to
temporary morgue or Fatality Collection Point(s).
12.Select an appropriate site out of public view, which would be suitable for a
Fatality Collection Point. Consider the following:
A. Refrigerated warehouses.
B. Refrigerated vehicles.
C. Facilities where the use of ice would be appropriate.
13.Provide communications. for mortuary personnel using Palm Desert Police
Department communications or RACES.
14.Coordinate with the Supply Unit to obtain body bags and other necessary
equipment required to identify, tag and store bodies (may require refrigeration
unit).
15.If possible, arrange for the security of personal belongings of the deceased.
16. Manage records regarding the collection and collating of information for the
County Coroner on:
A. Identification of deceased.
B. Date and time of death.
C. Name, address, phone, etc., of person who found body.
D. Date, time, and location where body was found.
E. Name of person determining death.
F. Date, time, and location where fatal injuries were received (if known).
G. Name, badge number, and department of Officer investigating the death.
H. Name of person transporting the body.
I. Name of person receiving"and identifying the body.
J. Photograph deceased prior to removal to assist in later identification.
K. List of all personal belongings on body at the time it is received:
L. Circumstances surrounding the death.
M. Apparent cause of death.
N. Date, time, and name of person to whom the body is released.
17. Using the Logistics EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 61 of 98
UTILITIES
SUPERVISOR: Logistics Section Chief
WORKSTATION: EOC-Logistics, Normal Workstation, Field Operations
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Act as a single source of communications and information between all utilities
and the City of Palm Desert EOC.
2. Provide the ongoing condition of all utilities to Damage Assessment and
Resource Status..
3. Under the supervision of the Incident Commander, identify the order in which
areas of the City are to have services restored.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Logistics Section
Chief.
2. Establish communication with Southern California Gas Company
3. Establish communication with Coachella Valley Water District.
4. Establish communication with Southern California Edison.
5. Establish communication with Verizon.
6. Establish communication with telecommunication providers, such as local
television stations and Time Warner Cable.
7. Establish communication with field units checking on utilities.
8. Report to Logistics Section Chief any information or condition that will effect
emergency operations.
9. Using the Logistics EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency.
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 62 of 98
EOC FACILITIES MANAGER
SUPERVISOR: Logistics Section Chief
WORKSTATION: Civic Center Buildings
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Provide post -emergency building repair and restorationservices sufficient to
support EOC and other workstation operations.
2. Working with Care & Shelter, provide necessary shelter for EOC staff.
3. Provide management and oversight for building restoration contractors.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Logistics Section
Chief.
2. Upon request, respond to the EOC and setup tables, chairs, and other related
equipment and supplies to support EOC operations.
3. Coordinate with Supply in the Logistics Section to provide food and drink stations
for City emergency response team.
4. Coordinate with the Logistics Section Chief to meet identified needs of the City
Hall emergency response team, including electrical, mechanical, temporary
sanitation and other infrastructure issues.
5. Provide supervision for all restoration contractors servicing City Hall after an
emergency.
6. Coordinate with Waste and Debris Disposal to ensure City Hall cleanup and
restoration can proceed swiftly.
7. Using the Logistics EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 63 of 98
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND GIS SERVICES
SUPERVISOR: Logistics Section Chief
WORKSTATION: EOC-Logistics, Civic Center Buildings
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Restoration and operation of all City Hall and EOC computer systems and
software.
2. Restoration and operation of e-mail and Internet systems and servers during
intermittent power and phone service situations.
3. Provides technical support for remote computer applications, such as laptops
used by operations, planning logistics.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Logistics Section
Chief.
2. Determine the operability of systems, servers and desktop equipment.
3. Operate information systems restoration plan.
4. Manage information systems during periods of fluctuating power service and
generator start-ups.
5. Utilize back-up data storage systems to prevent loss of data and programs during
emergency power fluctuations.
6. Ensure as many as possible EOC Sections computers and e-mail are
functioning.
7. Make recommendations for emergency purchases of equipment and supplies to
create operational systems through Logistics Section chief.
8. Provide technical support for operating software, accessing the Internet,
recovering information files and programs, assembling operational hardware for
workstations.
9. Provide technical support for imaging and mapping, GIS services and processing
photos and imaging from field operations.
10. Provide technical support for computer and Internet based communications
systems.
September 2005
Page64of98
11. Using the Logistics EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 65 of 98
DISPATCH MANAGER! SWITCHBOARD-/ COMMUNICATIONS
SUPERVISOR: Logistics Section Chief
WORKSTATION: Communications Center at the EOC or Civic Center
Switchboard
GENERAL DUTIES
Provide service to the switchboard and EOC Communications Center and Radio
Dispatch for City employees in the field.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Operate the City switchboard.
2. Advise the Logistics Section Chief on communications capabilities and/or
limitations.
3. Ensure the Incident Communication Center and Message Center are
established.
4. Check on the operational capability of the telephone and public address system,
personal portable radios and satellite phone system.
5. Ensure personal portable radio equipment is distributed in accordance with the
Radio Plan.
6. Using field radios and any other means available, coordinate communications
concerning location and movement of operational units and provide that
information to Operations, Planning and Logistic Section Chiefs as needed.
7. Contact Supply Unit for repair facilities for supplies, service and/or replacement
of equipment as required.
8. Provide technical information as required on:
i. Adequacy of communication systems currently in operation.
ii. Geographic limitations on communication systems.
iii. Equipment capabilities.
iv. Amount and types of equipment available.
v. Anticipated problems in the use of communication equipment.
9. Supervise Communication Unit activities.
September 2005
Page 66 of 98
10. Recover equipment from relieved or released units. Using the Logistics EOC kit,
maintain all required records and documentation to support the history of the
emergency:
i. Messages received.
ii. Action taken.
iii. Requests filled.
iv. EOC personnel and time on duty.
September 2005
Page 67 of 98
SUPERVISOR:
WORKSTATION:
FINANCE SECTION CHIEF
Incident Commander
Finance
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Manages the Finance Section.
2. Briefs and updates the Incident Commander. •
3. Supervises all financial aspects of the emergency.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Manage all financial and cost analysis aspects of the emergency and the supervision of
members of the Finance Section.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Command Staff.
2. Attend all Command Staff Section planning meetings to gather information on
overall strategy and assist in the development of an Incident Action Plan.
3. Organize the Finance Section and brief all personnel:
A. Cost
B. Time
C. Compensation & Claims
D. Recovery
4. Inform the Incident Commander when the Finance Section is fully operational.
5. Provide input in all plans for financial and cost analysis.
6. Working with the Cost Unit, make recommendations for cost savings to the
Command Staff.
7. Supervise the preparation and complete all financial obligation documents.
8. Review and expedite invoices and claims of vendors.
9. Coordinate all financial transactions with the Recovery Unit to assure proper
documentation for recovery of funds.
September 2005
Page 68 of 98
10. Working with the Cost Unit, provide for a periodic cost analysis of the emergency
for the Incident Commander.
11. Provide a periodic update of all financial information to the Command Staff and
Policy Decision Group.
12.Assist the Recovery Unit in the preparation of applications and claims for Federal
and State claims and assistance.
13.Working with the Recovery Unit, coordinate with Care & Shelter in the Logistics
Section and the Riverside County Office of Emergency Services on the
establishment of a Disaster Assistance Center (DAC), if needed. Include
provisions for office space, communications and support.
14. Plan to assist in the staffing of the DAC.
15.Based upon consumer complaints, make recommendations to the Incident
Commander to enforce the State Economic Stabilization Plan for price and rent
stabilization and consumer rationing.
16. Using the Finance EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B..Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
Precise information is essential to meet requirements for reimbursement by the State
and Federal Government.
September 2005
Page 69 of 98
COST CONTROL
SUPERVISOR: Finance Section Chief
WORKSTATION: Finance
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Obtains and records all cost data from the emergency.
2. Performs cost effectiveness analysis.
3. Provides cost estimates and cost saving recommendations.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
The Cost Unit Leader is responsible for collecting all cost data, performing cost
effectiveness analysis, providing cost estimates, and cost saving.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Finance Section Chief.
2. Obtain and record all cost data.
3. Maintain cumulative emergency cost records.
4. Provide periodic cost summaries for the Incident Commander and maintain a
fiscal record of all expenditures related to the emergency.
5. Ensure all financial obligation documents initiated at the emergency scene are
properly prepared and accurately identified.
6. Maintain accurate information on the actual cost for the use of all assigned
resources.
7. Working with the Time Unit, ensure that all pieces of equipment under contract
and dedicated personnel are properly identified.
8. Ensure all EOC Sections maintain proper supporting records and documentation
to support claims.
9. Make recommendations for cost summaries as required.
10. Prepare periodic incident cost summaries as required.
September 2005
Page 70 of 98
11. Using the Finance EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
Precise information is essential to meet requirements for reimbursement by the State
and Federal Government.
September 2005
Page 71 of 98
TIME RECORDER
SUPERVISOR: Finance Section Chief
WORKSTATION: Finance
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Keeps time records for all City personnel and registered volunteers working at
the emergency.
2. Establishes and maintains a file for all City personnel working at the emergency.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Keep track of the hours worked by paid personnel, convergent volunteers, contract
labor, Mutual Aid, and all others working at the emergency.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Finance Section Chief.
2. Establish and maintain a file for employee time records for each person. It should
include:
A. Correct identification.
B. Specific pay provisions.
C. Hours worked.
D. Assignment to a specific incident (location by address when possible).
E. Travel.
F. Termination of involvement in the emergency.
3. Coordinate all personnel hours worked with the Recovery Unit.
4. Establish and maintain a file of time reports on equipment that either needs
regular maintenance or is rented.
5. Keep records on each shift (12 hour shifts are recommended).
6. Close out personnel time reports before they leave the emergency.
September 2005
Page 72 of 98
7. Using the Finance EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
Precise information is essential to meet requirements for reimbursement by the State
and Federal Government.
September 2005
Page73of98
SUPERVISOR:
WORKSTATION:
COMPENSATION AND CLAIMS
Finance Section Chief
Finance
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Accept as agent for the City of Palm Desert, claims resulting from an emergency.
2. Ensure claims are as complete as possible
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Manage intake, collection, and processing for claims to employees and the public
concerning physical injuries and property damage involving the City, arising out of a
disaster.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Finance Section Chief.
2. Establish contact with Personnel and Damage Assessment Units to let them
know you are operational.
3. Ensure the investigation of all accidents, if possible.
4. Prepare claims relative to damage to City property and notify and file the claims
with insurers.
5. Make certain any injured personnel working at the emergency have claims
completed by the Personnel Unit.
6. In the absence of the City Clerk, receive all claims against the City of Palm
Desert.
7. Assign staff as needed.
8. Periodically review logs and forms by Unit to ensure completeness, accuracy,
timeliness, and compliance with procedures and policies.
9. Using the Finance EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
September 2005
Page 74 of 98
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
Precise information is essential to meet requirements for reimbursement by the State
and Federal Government.
September 2005
Page75of98
SUPERVISOR:
WORKSTATION:
RECOVERY
Finance Section Chief
Finance
GENERAL DUTIES
1. Coordinate recovery and reimbursement efforts for the City of Palm Desert.
Prepare FEMA and State DES forms and reports for reimbursement of eligible
disaster costs.
2. Assess damages, document and record information for reimbursement from the
State and Federal Government.
3. Accompany State and Federal inspectors on a' damage assessment tour of the
City to survey all damage and complete Damage Survey Reports.
4. Upon request, assist State DES and FEMA in locating and selecting a Disaster
Assistance Center (D.A.C.) site in the City if needed.
RECOVERY
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Coordinate contacts with Federal and State officials for the purpose of facilitating
reimbursement of eligible disaster costs.
ACTION CHECKLIST
1. Obtain a briefing on the extent of the emergency from the Finance Section Chief
and Director of Building and Safety.
2. Coordinate all recovery and reimbursement efforts for the City of Palm Desert.
3. Document and record all relevant information and costs relating to the
emergency or disaster to apply for maximum reimbursement of eligible disaster
costs.
4. Coordinate the preparation and filing of FEMA and State OES forms for
reimbursement of eligible disaster costs.
5. Accompany the State and Federal Coordinating Officers to damaged areas to
supervise the Damage Survey Reports (DSR's) that will be filed.
6. Upon request, assist the State OES and FEMA in locating and selecting a
Disaster Assistance Center (DAC) site in the City, if needed.
September 2005
Page 76 of 98
7. Consider the following when recommending a DAC site to State OES and FEMA:
A. Locate the site close to public transportation.
B. Use Shelter Sites whenever possible.
C. Use Public Facilities as alternate sites.
D. Use Community Centers as alternate sites.
8. Be prepared to provide a report to the Incident Commander of your current and
projected situation upon request.
9. Maintain copies of information and documents to record reimbursement
information, coordinate with the following:
A. Fire & Rescue/Medical.
B. Law Enforcement.
C. Maintenance and Engineering.
D. Damage Assessment.
E. Documentation.
10. Documents should include:
A. Job numbers.
B. Hours worked by the crew of that job.
C. Equipment used (time used).
D. Report number (law enforcement).
E. Location of the emergency and unit number.
11. Prepare and follow up on appeals to State DES and FEMA for denied
reimbursement costs.
12. Using the Finance EOC kit, maintain all required records and documentation to
support the history of the emergency:
A. Messages received.
B. Action taken.
C. Requests filled.
D. EOC personnel and time on duty.
Precise information is essential to meet requirements for reimbursement by the State
and Federal Government.
September 2005
Page 77 of 98
GLOSSARY
A
Action Plan
See Incident Action Plan.
Agency
An agency is a division of government with a specific function, or a non -governmental
organization (e.g., private contractor, business, etc.) that offers a particular kind of
assistance. In ICS, agencies are defined as jurisdictional (having statutory responsibility
for incident mitigation), or assisting and/or cooperating (providing resources and/or
assistance). See Assisting Agency, Cooperating Agency and Multi -agency.
Agency Executive or Administrator
Chief executive officer (or designee) of the agency or jurisdiction that has responsibility
for the incident.
Agency Dispatch
The agency or jurisdictional facility from which resources are allocated to incidents.
Agency Representative
An individual assigned to an incident from an assisting or cooperating agency that has
been delegated full authority to make decisions on all matters affecting that agency's
participation at the incident. Agency representatives report to the Incident Liaison
Officer.
Air Operations Branch Director
The person primarily responsible for preparing and implementing the air operations
portion of the Incident Action Plan. This person is also responsible for providing
logistical support to helicopters operating on the incident.
Allocated Resources
Resources dispatched'to an incident that have not yet checked in with the Emergency
Operations Center, Staging or Base Camp.
Area Command
An organization established to: 1) oversee the management of multiple incidents that
are each being handled by an Incident Command System organization, or 2) to oversee
September 2005
Page78of98
the management of a very large incident that has multiple Incident Management Teams
assigned to it. Area Command has the responsibility to set overall strategy and
priorities, allocate critical resources based on priorities, ensure that incidents are
properly managed, and ensure that objectives are met and strategies followed.
Assigned Resources
Resources checked in and assigned work tasks on an incident.
Assignments
Tasks given to resources to perform within a given operational period, based upon
tactical objectives in the Incident Action Plan.
Assistant
Title for subordinates of the Command Staff Positions. The title indicates a level of
technical capability, qualifications, and responsibility subordinate to the primary
positions. Assistants may also be used to supervise unit activities at camps.
Assistant City Manager
Serves in the place of the City Manager in the capacity of the Incident Commander
when it is not possible for the City Manager to assume the position.
Assisting Agency
An agency directly contributing suppression, rescue, support, or services resources to
another agency.
Available Resources
Resources assigned to an incident and available for assignment.
B
Base
The location at which primary logistics functions for an incident are coordinated and
administered. There is only one Base per incident. (Incident name or other designator
will be added to the term "Base"). The Incident Command Post may be co -located with
the Base.
September 2005
Page79of98
Base Camp
A geographical site, within the general incident area, equipped and staffed to provide
food, water, and sanitary services to incident personnel. A Base will be arranged for City
of Palm Desert employees and their dependents.
Branch
That organizational level having functional or geographic responsibility for major
segments of incident operations. The Branch level is organizationally between Section
and Division/Group.
Branch Director
A Branch Director may be implemented in the event that all functions of the Logistics
Section are activated. In such a case Branch directors will be appointed to the Supply
Branch and the Support Branch.
C
Camp
A geographical site, within the general incident area, separate from the Incident Base,
equipped and staffed to provide sleeping, food, water, and sanitary services to incident
personnel.
Care & Shelter
A service provided by Red Cross and Red Cross Volunteers to provide food, clothing
and shelter to people on a mass care basis. Care & Shelter also provides welfare
information through a Central Registration system that connects all shelter sites with a
Central registration location.
Central Registry
A Central Registration Area will be established at a predetermined location to record the
welfare status of all persons impacted by the disaster.
Chain of Command
A series of management positions in order of authority.
Check -in
Locations where assigned resources check -in at an incident. The locations are:
September 2005
Page 80 of 98
1. Incident Command Post.
2. Base Camp.
3. Staging Areas.
4. Division Supervisors (for direct assignments).
Check -in is required at one location only.
Chief
The ICS title for individuals responsible for command of functional sections: Operations,
Planning, Logistics and Finance.
City Council
The elected officials of the City of Palm Desert, which include the five Councilpersons.
City Manager
Under the supervision of the City Council, is the Manager of all City departments and
personnel.
Command
The act of directing, ordering and/or controlling resources by virtue of explicit legal,
agency or delegated authority. May also refer to Incident Commander.
Command Post
(See Incident Command Post)
Command Section
The Command Section is made up of the following Command Staff positions:
1. Incident Commander.
2. Emergency Services Officer.
3. Policy Decision Group.
4. Legal Officer.
5. Public Information Officer.
6. Technical Specialists (as needed).
Command Staff
The Command Staff is made up of the following persons:
1. City Manager (Incident Commander).
2. Emergency Services Officer.
September 2005
Page 81 of 98
3. City Manager, Assistant City Manager/Administrative Services, Assistant City
Manager/Public Works, Police Chief, Community Development Director, Palm
Desert Fire Chief, Desert Sands Unified School District.
4. City Attorney.
5. City Clerk and Public Information Team (Public Information Officer).
Communications Unit
An organizational unit in the Logistics Section responsible for providing communication
services at an incident. A Communications Unit may also be a facility used to provide
the major part of an Incident Communications Center.
Communications Van
The Communications Van is a vehicle used to provide emergency communications
between field units, Incident Command Post and/or EOC. It may be used in time of
emergency as a mobile Emergency Operations Center in the event that the primary
EOC is damaged. It may also be used for large incidents when many agencies need
central communications capability.
Company
The basic firefighting organizational unit composed of a Company Officer, Apparatus
Operator and firefighters.
Compensation & Claims
Compensation and Claims is a unit within the Finance Section, usually staffed by
Finance or Administrative Services staff. The function is to accept liability claims against
the City of Palm Desert resulting from an emergency, and in addition, to provide legal
counsel in areas of claims for bodily injury and property damage presented to the City.
Convergent Volunteer
Any person offering their services at the scene of a disaster shall be known as a
Convergent Volunteer or Disaster Service Volunteer,
Cooperating Agency
An agency supplying assistance other than direct suppression, rescue, support, or
service functions to the incident control effort. (Example: Red Cross, Law Enforcement
agency, PG & E, Verizon).
September 2005
Page 82 of 98
Coordination
The process of systematically analyzing a situation, developing relevant information,
and informing appropriate command authority (for its decision) of viable alternatives for
selection of the most effective combination of available resources to meet specific
objectives. The coordination process includes personnel responsible for coordination,
who may perform command or dispatch functions within limits as established by specific
agency procedures, legal authority, etc.
Coroner
The Riverside County Coroner is the Riverside County Sheriff. In time of emergency,
and after the establishment of a liaison between the Coroners Office and the City of
Palm Desert EOC, members of the Palm Desert Police Department and workers from
local funeral homes will perform the Coroner's function.
Cost
Cost is a function under the supervision of the Finance Section Chief. Cost is
responsible to collect all cost data, perform cost effective analyses, project cost
estimates and provide cost saving recommendations to the Finance Section Chief upon
request.
Cost Unit
Functional unit within the Finance Section, which is responsible for tracking costs,
analyzing cost data, making cost estimates, and recommending cost saving measures.
D
Damage Assessment
Damage assessment is a function within the Operations Section. Damage Assessment
is responsible for the collection, evaluation, dissemination and use of information
relative to damage in the City during time of emergency.
Delegation of Authority
A statement provided to the Incident Commander by the Agency Executive delegating
authority and assigning responsibility. The Delegation of Authority can include
objectives, priorities, expectations, constraints and other considerations or guidelines as
needed. Many agencies require written Delegation of Authority to be given to Incident
Commanders prior to their assuming command on larger incidents.
September 2005
Page 83 of 98
Demobilization Unit
Functional unit within the Planning Section responsible for assuring orderly, safe and
efficient demobilization of incident resources.
Deputy
A fully qualified individual who, in the absence of a superior, could be delegated the
authority to manage a functional operation or perform a specific task. In some cases, a
Deputy could act as relief for a superior; therefore, must be fully qualified in the position.
Deputies can be assigned to the Incident Commander, General Staff and Branch
Directors.
Director
The ICS title for individuals responsible for supervision of a Branch.
Dispatch Center
A facility from which resources are assigned to an incident.
Dispatch Manager
The Police/Fire Dispatch Manager provides direction and assistance to the
Communication Center in the coordination of personnel and equipment as ordered by
the EOC Command Staff.
Division
That organization level having responsibility for operations within a defined geographic
area or with functional responsibility. The division level is organizationally between the
Strike Team and the Branch. (See also Group)
Documentation
Documentation is a function in the Planning Section and is responsible to maintain and
file all EOC messages. Record and maintain a file on documents relative to the
emergency. In addition, to maintain an official history of the emergency and to provide
guidance and assistance to workstation personnel relative to documentation
procedures.
Documentation Unit
Documentation Unit is a function in the Planning Section and is responsible for
maintaining and filing all EOC messages, recording and maintaining files on documents
relative to the' emergency, and providing guidance and assistance to workstation
personnel relative to documentation procedures.
September 2005
Page 84 of 98
E
Emergency Alert System
A system operated through Riverside County OES to provide the public with information
through local radio, television and cable stations and networks.
EOC Facilities Manager
A function within the Logistics Section, the EOC Facilities Manager is responsible for
insuring that the EOC is set up. The EOC Facilities Manager shall be the Custodian.
The Emergency Services Officer shall inspect the EOC to ensure it is set up properly.
Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
The City of Palm Desert Emergency Operations Center is located at 73-510 Fred
Waring Drive, in the Palm Desert City Hall — Code Enforcement Wing.
Emergency Operations Plan
The plan that each jurisdiction has and maintains for responding to appropriate hazards.
Emergency Organization
The Emergency Organization is made up of all functions and units of the Emergency
Operations Center. Each of these functions and units are described in this glossary.
Emergency Services Officer
The Emergency Services Officer is the Risk Manager or as designated by the Incident
Commander. This position is an advisory position to the Incident Commander in time of
emergency.
Engine
Any vehicle providing specified levels of pumping capability, water, and hose.
Engine Company
Personnel assigned to the Engine, composed of a Company Officer, Apparatus
Operator, and Firefighters.
Evacuation
Under the supervision of the Law Enforcement unit of the Emergency Operations
Center, the movement of persons to a safe environment to protect them from injury and
or death as a result of an emergency or disaster.
September 2005
Page 85 of 98
F
Fatality Collection Point
A Fatality Collection Point will be established to provide a suitable and appropriate
location for deceased persons until the Riverside County Coroner can receive remains.
Field Incident Command Post
At this location the primary command functions are executed and usually co -located in
close proximity with the incident base.
Finance Section
The Finance Section is responsible for all incident costs and financial considerations.
Includes the Time Unit, Procurement Unit, Compensation/Claims Unit and Cost Unit.
Finance Section Chief
The Finance Section Chief is responsible for managing all financial and cost analysis
aspects of the emergency. In addition, the Finance Section Chief manages all personnel
in the Finance Section.
Fire & Rescue
The Fire & Rescue unit is in the Operations Section and is responsible for all fire field
forces. Fire & Rescue prevents, controls and suppresses fires, delivers emergency
medical services, hazardous material identification and mitigation, and conducts rescue
operations with the assistance of the Maintenance and Engineering Unit when heavy
equipment is needed.
Function
In ICS, function refers to the five major activities in the ICS, i.e., Command, Operations,
Planning, Logistics and Finance. The term "function" is also used when describing the
activity involved, e.g., "the planning function".
G
Ground Support Unit
Functional unit within the Support Branch of the Logistics Section responsible for the
fueling, maintaining and repairing of vehicles, and the transportation of personnel and
supplies.
September 2005
Page 86 of 98
Group
A functional division (Example: air support, salvage, heavy rescue, etc.)
H
Hand Crew
Predetermined individuals that are supervised, organized, a principally for clearing
brush as a fire suppression measure.
Incident
An occurrence or event, either human caused or natural phenomena, that requires
action by emergency service personnel to prevent or minimize loss of life or damage to
property and/or natural resources.
Incident Action Plan
The Incident Action Plan, which is initially prepared at the first meeting, contains
general control objectives reflecting the overall incident strategy, and specific action
plans for the next operational period. When complete, the Incident Action Plans will
have a number of attachments.
Incident Base
The primary logistics functions are coordinated and administered at the location of the
incident. (Incident name or other designator will be added to the term "Base"). The
Incident Command Post may be collocated with the Base. There is only one Base per
incident.
Incident Commander
Is responsible for management of all incident operations.
Incident Command Post (ICP)
The primary command functions are executed at this location. The ICP may be
collocated with the incident base or other incident facilities.
September 2005
Page 87 of 98
Incident Command System (ICS)
The combination of facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and communications
operating within a common organizational structure with the responsibility for the
management of assigned resources to effectively accomplish stated objectives
pertaining to the incident.
Incident Communications Center
The Communications Unit and the Message Center are at this location.
Incident Management Team
The Incident Commander and appropriate General and Command Staff personnel
assigned to an incident.
Incident Objectives
Statements of guidance and directions necessary for the selection of appropriate
strategy(s) and the tactical direction of resources. Incident objectives are based on
realistic expectations of what can be accomplished when all allocated resources have
been effectively deployed. Incident objectives must be achievable and measurable, yet
flexible enough to allow for strategic and tactical alternatives.
Initial Action
The actions taken by resources that are the first to arrive at an incident.
Initial Response
Resources initially committed to an incident.
J
Jurisdiction
The range or sphere of an authority. Public agencies have jurisdiction at an incident
related to their legal responsibilities and authority for incident mitigation. Jurisdictional
authority at an incident can be political/geographical (e.g., city, county, State or Federal
boundary lines) or functional (e.g., police department, health department, etc.). See
Multi jurisdiction.
Jurisdiction Agency
An agency having jurisdiction and responsibility for a specific geographical area or a
mandated function.
September 2005
Page 88 of 98
L
Law Enforcement
The Law Enforcement unit's mission is to provide warning information, evacuate
citizens, control traffic and provide security. Law Enforcement also enforces temporary
rules, laws, controls crime and assists the coroner in the identification of remains and in
the operation of a temporary morgue.
Legal Officer
The Legal Officer is usually the City Attorney or the Assistant City Attorney. The Legal
Officer is intended to provide legal advise to the Incident Commander in all legal matters
relative to the emergency. The Legal officer, using legal documentation, assists the
Incident Commander in the declaration of an emergency.
Levels of Disaster
The City of Palm Desert recognizes three levels of disaster. These levels will be
dictated by the severity of the emergency.. The three levels correspond to the State of
California Office of Emergency Service (OES) and the City of Palm Desert Emergency
Plan.
Level 1: A moderate to severe incident wherein local resources are adequate and
available. Some or all off duty personnel in selected departments may be recalled.
Level 2: A moderate to severe emergency wherein local resources are not adequate
and Mutual Aid may be required. All off duty personnel will be recalled.
Level 3: A major disaster wherein resources in or near the impacted area are
overwhelmed and extensive Mutual Aid is required. A State of Emergency will be
proclaimed and a Presidential Declaration of Emergency or major Disaster will be
requested. All off duty personnel in all departments will be recalled.
Liaison
The Liaison is assigned to the Operations Section and will be sent to the Riverside
County EOC to act on behalf of the City of Palm Desert for resource requests.
Logistics Section
The Logistics Section is responsible for providing facilities, services and materials for
the incident.
September 2005
Page 89 of 98
Logistics Section Chief
The Logistics Section Chief manages all functions and units of the Logistics Section,
and provides for personnel, materials and facilities as required to mitigate the
emergency.
M
Maintenance and Engineering
Maintenance and Engineering is a function within the Operations Section. The
responsibility of Maintenance and Engineering is to coordinate all maintenance,
engineering, and utilities activities within the City during an emergency.
Management by Objectives
In ICS, this is a top -down management activity, which involves a three -step process to
achieve the incident goal. The steps are: establishing the incident objectives, selection
of appropriate strategy(s) to achieve the objectives, and the tactical direction associated
With the selected strategy. Tactical direction includes: selection of tactics, selection of
resources, resource assignments and performance monitoring.
Management Operations Plan
The Management Operation Plan is intended to be a supplement to, and not a
replacement for the City of Palm Desert Emergency Plan. It is divided into seven parts
and is based on the organizational concept of the Incident Command System. There are
workstations for all Emergency Operations Center personnel to respond to and manage
any emergency or disaster.
Message Center
The Message Center is part of the Incident Communications Center and is placed next
to it. It receives, records and routes information about resources reporting to the
incident, resource status and administrative and tactical traffic.
Mobilization
The process and procedures used by all organizations (Federal, State and local) for
activating, assembling and transporting all resources that have been requested to
respond to or support an incident.
Mobilization Center
An off -incident location at which emergency service personnel and equipment are
temporarily located pending assignment, release or reassignment.
September 2005
Page 90 of 98
Multi -agency Incident
An incident where one or more agencies assist a jurisdictional agency or agencies. May
be single or unified command.
Multi -agency Coordination (MAC)
A generalized term which describes the functions and activities of representatives of
involved agencies and/or jurisdictions who come together to make decisions regarding
the prioritizing of incidents, and the sharing and use of critical resources.
Multi -Agency Coordination System (MACS)
The combination of personnel, facilities, equipment, procedures and communications
integrated into a common system. When activated, MACS have the responsibility for
coordination of assisting agency resources and support in a multi -agency or multi -
jurisdictional environment. AMAC Group functions with the MACS.
Multi jurisdiction Incident
An incident requiring action from multiple agencies that have a statutory responsibility
for incident mitigation. In ICS these incidents will be managed under Unified Command.
Mutual Aid Agreement
Written agreement between agencies and/or jurisdictions in which they agree to assist
one another upon request, by furnishing personnel and equipment.
0
Officer
The ICS title for the personnel responsible for the Command Staff positions.
Operations Area
An Operations Area (OP) consists of the County of Riverside and all the political
subdivisions within the county and is coordinated by the .Riverside County Office of
Emergency Services.
Operations Section
The Section responsible for all tactical operations at the incident. Includes Branches,
Divisions, and/or Groups, Task Forces, Strike Teams, Single Resources and Staging
Areas.
September 2005
Page 91 of 98
Operations Section Chief
The Operations Section Chief reports directly to the Incident Commander and is also
responsible for the management of all operations directly applicable to the emergency.
The Operations Section Chief assists in the development and' execution of the
INCIDENT ACTION PLAN, and in addition, approves all requests for Mutual Aid and
other resources. -
Out -of -Service Resources
Resources assigned to an incident but unable to respond for mechanical, rest or
personnel reasons.
P
Patrol Unit
Any light, mobile firefighting unit having limited pumping and water capacity.
Personnel
The Personnel unit provides direction and control to convergent volunteer workers and
fills the needs of the Operations Section upon request for workers. The Personnel unit
may also be appointed to the position of Deputy to the Logistics Section Chief in an
effort to divide the Logistics Section into two branches. These branches are the Service
Branch and the Support Branch. The Service Branch provides tools, equipment and
necessary services. The Support Branch provides personnel and the necessary things
related to personnel such as Care & Shelter or Coroner function.
Planning Meeting
A meeting held as needed throughout the duration of an incident to select specific
strategies and tactics for incident control operations, and for service and support
planning. On larger incidents, the planning meeting is a major element in the
development of the Incident Action Plan.
Planning Section
Responsible for the collection, evaluation and dissemination of tactical information
related to the incident, and for the preparation and documentation of Action Plans. The
section also maintains information on the current and forecasted situation and on the
status of resources assigned to the incident. Includes the Situation, -"Resource,
Documentation, and Demobilization Units as well as Technical Specialists.
September 2005
Page 92 of 98
Planning Section Chief
The Planning Section Chief is responsible for collecting, evaluating and disseminating,
forecasting and formulating information relative to the emergency for the purpose of
assisting the Incident Commander and the Policy Decision Group in the development of
an Incident Action Plan.
Policy Decision Group
The Policy Decision Group is made up of the Incident Commander, Risk Manager,
Assistant City Manager/Administrative Services, Assistant City Manager/Public Works,
Fire Chief, Police Chief, Community Development Director. The group shall also include
the directors or agency representatives from assisting agencies, who have full authority
to make decisions effecting their agency's participation.
Public Information Officer
The Public Information Officer is a member of a specially trained team of personnel
employed by the City of Palm Desert to act as a source of information to the public and
news media.
R
Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES)
Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) is a group of volunteer amateur radio
operators that are able to provide emergency communications when other means of
communication are out of service, non existent, or otherwise not available.
Recorders
Individuals within ICS organizational units who are responsible for recording
information. Recorders may be found in Operations Planning, Logistics and Finance
Units.
Recovery
The process of recovery begins as soon as there is a response to the emergency.
Disaster Assistance Centers (DAC's) will be set up in all shelters whenever possible to
begin the claims process through the State and Federal governments.
Reinforced Response
Those resources requested in addition to the initial response.
September 2005
Page 93 of 98
Reporting Locations
Location or facilities where incoming resources can check in at the incident (see check
in).
Resource Status Unit
The Resource Status unit receives information from Damage Assessment and various
other sources. Once this information is gathered, Resource Status will post and keep
current all information on the status boards and maps in the Emergency Operations
Center.
Resources
All personnel and major items of equipment available,- or potentially available for
assignment to incident tasks onwhich status is maintained.
Riverside County Office of Emergency Services (OES)
The Riverside County organization located in Riverside or Indio provides County and
State coordination for commendations and logistics support.
s
Safety Officer
A member of the Command Staff responsible for monitoring and assessing safety
hazards or unsafe situations, and for developing measures for ensuring personnel
safety. The Safety Officer may have assistants.
Section
Organization level with responsibility for a major functional area of the incident, e.g.,
Operations, Planning, Logistics, Finance. The Section is organizationally between
Branch and Incident Commander.
Section Chiefs
Section Chiefs are top-level management in the Emergency Operations Center. Section
Chiefs are in charge of Operations, Planning, Logistics and Finance. Each of these
Division Chiefs reports to the Incident Commander.
Security
A function provided in the field under certain types of emergencies involving Police
operations.
September 2005
Page 94 of 98
Service Branch
A Branch within the Logistics Section responsible for service activities at the incident.
Includes the Communications, Medical and Food Units.
Single Resource
An individual, a piece of equipment and its personnel complement, or a crew or team of
individuals with an identified work supervisor that can be used on an incident.
Situation Analysis
The Situation Analysis units primary role is to collect and process all information and
intelligence, to evaluate and disseminate information, supervise emergency mapping
and to record operations, and to make recommendations to the Planning Section Chief
relative to the emergency.
Span of Control
The supervisory ratio of three to seven individuals per supervisor, with a five to one ratio
considered optimum.
Staging Area
The Staging Area is intended as the departure point for manpower and equipment to the
scene of a disaster. Assignment to the disaster will be with a five-minute notification.
Strategy
The general plan or direction selected to accomplish incident objectives.
Strike Team
Specified combinations of the same kind and type of resources, with common
communication and a leader in groups of five (i.e., five fire engines or five trucks).
Supervisor
The ICS title for individuals responsible for command of a Division or, Group.
Supply Unit
The Supply unit provides all tangible products that may be required during an
emergency. Some examples would be shovels, rain gear, food, etc.
September 2005
Page 95 of 98
Support Branch
A Branch within the Logistics Section responsible for providing personnel, equipment
and supplies to support incident operations. Includes the Supply, Facilities and Ground
Support Units.
Support Resources
Non -tactical resources under the supervision of the Logistics, Planning, Finance
Sections or the Command Staff.
Supporting Materials
Refers to the several attachments that may be included with an Incident Action Plan,
e.g., communications plan, map, safety plan, traffic plan and medical plan.
T
Tactical Direction
Directions given by the Operations Section Chief, which includes the tactics, appropriate
for the selected strategy, the selection and assignment of resources, tactics
implementation, and performance monitoring for each operational period.
Task Force
A mixed group of resources with common communication and a leader assembled for a
specific mission usually in groups of five (for example: 3 Engines and 2 Trucks).
Technical Specialist
A Technical Specialist may act as an advisory resource person to the Incident
Commander and may provide special technical information that will assist in the
development of an Incident Action Plan. Some areas of expertise might be Hazardous
Materials, Radiology or other types of information that might be required by the Incident
Commander to assist in the mitigation of the emergency.
Time Unit
The Time unit maintains records of all personnel time worked at the emergency.
Personnel include all persons such as convergent volunteers, mutual aid workers, city
employees, and any worker that has not been previously registered as a Disaster
Service Worker.
September 2005
Page 96 of 98
Type
Refers to resource capability. A Type I resource provides a greater overall capability
due to power, size, capacity, etc., than would be found in a Type 2 resource. Resource
typing provides managers with additional information in selecting the best resource for
the task.
Transportation
The Transportation Unit provides any vehicle that may be required to be used in the
emergency. These vehicles may include cars, trucks, busses, heavy equipment, fixed
and rotary wing aircraft and any other equipment that might be required.
U
Unified Area Command
A Unified Area Command is established when incidents under an Area Command are
multi -jurisdictional. (See Area Command and Unified Command)
Unified Command
In ICS, Unified Command is a unified team effort which allows all agencies with
responsibility for the incident, either geographical or functional, to manage an incident
by establishing a common set of incident objectives and strategies. This is
accomplished without losing or abdicating agency authority, responsibility or
accountability.
Unit
That organization element having functional responsibility for a specific incident
planning, logistics, or finance activity.
Unity of Command
The concept by which each person within an organization reports to one and only one
designated person.
Utility
The Utility Unit provides an ongoing source of information to the Damage Assessment
and Situation Analysis Units on the current status of electrical power, natural gas and
telephone communication capabilities within the City of Palm Desert. Based on this
information, the Incident Commander will direct, as available, Southern California Gas,
Southern California Edison, and Verizon resources to restore utilities to any given area
of the City.
September 2005
Page 97 of 98
W
Waste Water
The Water Supply and Waste Water Units mission is to maintain, restore and repair, as
required, the fresh water supply system. Additionally, to maintain the Waste Water
System so as to prevent leaks and spills thereby preventing the possible spread of
disease.
Welfare Status
Welfare Status information will be provided from a Central Registry for those persons
inquiring about missing relatives.
Work Station
A predetermined work location within the Emergency Operations Center. The number of
workstations in the EOC is determined by the extent of the emergency or disaster. One
workstation is located in the Police Department Conference Room for the Incident
Commander and his staff. Another workstation is located in the radio room for use by
RACES.
September 2005
Page 98 of 98