NIMS Emergency Operations Center How-to Quick Reference Guide
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1.4. Hazard Prediction and Monitoring Capability
Hazard prediction encompasses an EOC’s ability to predict and monitor impending or existing
hazards. This capability may include computer modeling for chemical or radioactive hazards, as well
as the ability to monitor streams, severe weather, hurricanes and earthquakes. Weather monitoring
capability (temperature, wind speed and rainfall) can help users predict and track natural hazards,
such as mudslides, wildfires and flash floods. The jurisdictional hazard and vulnerability assessment
identifies hazards that may require prediction and monitoring capability at the EOC. Since EOCs vary
in size, scope and capability, EOCs may or may not have staff trained in and familiar with hazard
prediction and monitoring capability. FEMA recommends that EOC leaders consider hazard
prediction and monitoring training and expertise when recruiting staff and assessing skillsets. When
this expertise is not available within the EOC, consider establishing partnerships with this capability
in the region.
In a hybrid or virtual environment, ensure access to modeling applications, sensitive plans and
procedures (e.g., dam emergency action plans), live feeds from stream gauges and weather stations,
and other hazard prediction and monitoring capabilities are still accessible.
1.5. Crisis Information Management System
A crisis information management system may consist of open-source, free, or commercial, off-the-
shelf software, often with additional applications for specialized needs.
The system should manage
key information such as GIS information and hazard prediction models. A crisis information
management system should help users manage the incident and track resource deployment,
response teams and other response capabilities, according to the jurisdiction’s plan. It should also
manage diverse data elements such as threat assessments, status reports, incident alerts,
contingency plans, response plans, damage assessments, supplies, personnel data (including
certifications and phone numbers), recovery plans and incident logs.
While a commercial, off-the-shelf system is not a requirement, each EOC should have a good file
management system, with logical, intuitive file locations and naming conventions. Remember that
systems can fail, so electronic and hard copy backup methods are important.
Consider utilizing automated processes to track, approve, and archive documents, as well as satisfy
records retention policies. Data storage, security, access and interoperability amongst crisis
information management systems is also critical. Like many software solutions, crisis information
management systems may be hosted on-premise or in the cloud. If using an on-premise solution,
considerations must be made for hybrid or virtual users to ensure secure access to the system from
their devices. While there are many purpose-built crisis information management systems on the
market, organizations should consider other cloud-based collaboration and project management
tools with similar functionality for their virtual emergency operations center. In some cases, their
organization or jurisdiction may have already invested significant resources to acquire licenses and
conduct training for staff members on these commercial off-the-shelf solutions, helping to increase
likelihood of adoption by all stakeholders without having to learn a completely new system.