A Guide to Emergency Preparedness

THIS WEEK’S CONTRIBUTOR:
Amy Courville | Director of Emergency Preparedness
APTIM | Emergency Management & Disaster Services
Amy.Courville@APTIM.com

Amy, an Emergency Management Accreditation Program Trained Business Consultant, brings over 20 years of experience in emergency management to lead APTIM’s Emergency Preparedness team.

A Guide to Your Emergency Preparedness Plan

In a world where disasters are becoming more frequent and intense, the importance of being prepared cannot be overstated. Comprehensive and cost-effective solutions ensure communities can effectively respond and recover from all hazards.

The Four Steps of Emergency Preparedness Planning

Despite the growing awareness of the increased frequency and intensity of disasters, many still believe they won’t be personally affected. However, with climate changes, shifting social demographics, and a rise in extreme weather events, being prepared is no longer a choice but a necessity. Your emergency preparedness level directly influences the success of disaster response efforts and the speed of recovery.

1. Understanding Your Risk

Preparation begins with assessing the hazards that may impact your home, business, or community. The findings from the Atlas of Disaster reveal that 90% of US counties experienced federal climate disasters between 2011–2021, affecting over 300 million people. APTIM’s team of experts utilizes data analysis, modeling, and extensive experience to identify priorities and design plans to manage risks effectively.

2. Building Your Plan

Having a prepared plan is crucial for minimizing risks and ensuring coordinated resilient solutions. APTIM collaborates with clients to build, strengthen, and implement fit-for-purpose plans tailored to unique challenges. Proactive planning reduces the need for reactionary actions and facilitates faster recovery with an eye toward improving future resilience.

3. Managing Your Plan

A well-prepared plan must be regularly reviewed and maintained. A partner like APTIM will evaluate threats, solutions, and hazard mitigation tactics from a different perspective. Key questions to consider include updating personnel information, assessing the relevance of technological tools, and reviewing the plan’s effectiveness since the last disaster activation.

4. Improving Your Plan

Augmenting your team with contracted services is an effective way to enhance preparedness, capability, and capacity. Linking up with an engaged, prepositioned contractor like APTIM is the best strategy for optimal preparedness. Share your plan, conduct joint training and exercises, and manage the plan collaboratively.

Your Emergency Management Company

When disasters are inevitable, being prepared is not just a choice but a responsibility. APTIM stands ready to assist you in evaluating, building, managing, and improving your emergency preparedness plan. Don’t wait until the next disaster strikes! Take proactive steps with an emergency management company like APTIM to ensure the resilience and preparedness of your community, business, or home. Contact me today to build a resilient community together, from emergency preparation to disaster recovery.

About APTIM Emergency Management & Disaster Services

APTIM Emergency Management & Disaster Services envisions a future where communities have a culture of preparedness and equity. Our team is committed to preserving the environment, planning for emergencies, restoring essential services, and supporting whole-community and economic recovery.