Date:Fri, 29 Aug 2008 13:55:08 -0400
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Subject:ICC Monthly Update - August 2008
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Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties
Interagency Coordinating Council on Emergency Preparedness
and Individuals with Disabilities
August 2008 Updates
AUGUST 2008
Volume 3, Number 8
In This Issue
ICC Monthly Highlights
ICC Monthly Updates
Recently Released Resources
Upcoming Events
About the ICC
Category of Links
www.disabilitypreparedness.gov <http://www.disabilitypreparedness.gov/>
www.dhs.gov/disabilitypreparednessicc
Contact Us
[log in to unmask]
ICC Monthly Highlights
FEMA Issues Interim Emergency Management Planning Guide for Special
Needs Populations
On Aug. 15, FEMA released an interim Comprehensive Emergency Management
Planning Guide for Special Needs Populations. The guide, designated
CPG-301, is designed to aid tribal, state, territorial, and local
governments in planning for individuals with special needs during an
emergency.
Following an assessment of emergency operations plans in 2006, the
Department's Nationwide Plan Review Phase 2 Report concluded that
"substantial improvement is necessary to integrate people with
disabilities in emergency planning and readiness." CPG-301 addresses
this shortfall with respect to people with physical and mental
disabilities, the elderly, and other individuals with special needs.
FEMA and the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties jointly
developed CPG-301. The interim guide reflects extensive input from key
federal, state, and local government partners, along with
nongovernmental organizations representing special needs communities.
CPG-301 follows the approach taken by the National Response Framework in
defining special needs populations. The guide outlines how involving
special needs populations in planning enables emergency managers to
address the function-based needs of individuals.
CPG-301 is the second of a series of guides released by DHS/FEMA to
provide comprehensive guidance on developing emergency plans. CPG-301
will remain an interim document throughout this year while feedback
based on field experience is sought from emergency managers during a
series of forums and an open comment period. This feedback will be
considered before finalizing the document later this year.
The document is available at:
http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=45435. A Frequently Asked
Questions document is also available at:
http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=45436.
ICC Monthly Updates
US Department of Homeland Security
National Preparedness Month Coalition Numbers Grow
Secretary urges Americans to get involved as September nears
The Department's Ready Campaign (www.ready.gov) is sponsoring its fifth
annual National Preparedness Month (NPM) this September, which has
received support from more than 2,800 NPM coalition members. This is the
largest number of coalition members to sign up since the initiative's
inception, and is an increase of more than 50 percent over last year.
Consisting of national, regional, state, and local organizations, the
combined efforts of NPM coalition members throughout the month of
September will encourage all Americans to take the steps necessary to
prepare for emergencies before they happen.
"National Preparedness Month is an important reminder about each
American's civic responsibility to prepare for emergencies," said
Secretary Chertoff. "Those with the capacity and wherewithal to help
themselves must do so in advance, so that in the event of an emergency,
responders can first assist those who are unable to tend to themselves.
From wildfires and earthquakes in California to hurricanes and tropical
storms along the Gulf Coast to flooding in the Midwest, recent events
remind us more than ever that we must prepare ourselves and our families
for a disaster. This is the time, each year, when every American should
ask the question, 'Am I ready?'"
The Ready Campaign and its DHS partner Citizen Corps (
www.citizencorps.gov <http://www.citizencorps.gov/> ) are encouraging
individuals across the nation to take important preparedness steps that
will greatly improve their ability to survive and recover from all types
of emergencies, whether natural or man-made. These steps include getting
an emergency supply kit, making a family emergency plan, becoming
informed about the different emergencies that may affect them, and
getting involved in community preparedness and response efforts.
NPM coalition members are encouraging Americans to prepare for
emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools, and communities by
hosting events such as seminars, fairs, community outreach events,
workshops, webinars, and trainings. For a complete list of events taking
place across the country throughout NPM 2008, please visit
www.ready.gov.
Federal Communications Commission
FCC Adapts Telephone Numbering System and E-911 Requirements for
Providers of Internet-Based Telecommunications Relay Services
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) took important step toward
providing Americans with hearing and speech disabilities with access to
the telephone network that is "functionally equivalent" to voice
telephone services. Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS), and newer,
Internet-based forms of TRS, including Video Relay Service (VRS) and
Internet Protocol (IP) Relay, allow persons with hearing and speech
disabilities to communicate with hearing users of voice services. Until
now, there was no uniform, consistent way for voice telephone users to
call Internet-based TRS users. Further, TRS typically has not provided
the same access to emergency services as compared to traditional
telephone services.
The FCC Order adopts a system for assigning traditional ten-digit
telephone numbers to Internet-based TRS users. This means that
Internet-based TRS users will be able to reach and be reached by both
hearing users of the traditional telephone network and other
Internet-based TRS users by doing something most Americans take for
granted - dialing a ten-digit phone number. Internet-based TRS users
will also be able to transfer their numbers from one provider to
another, and users will be able to use any Internet-based TRS provider
they choose.
In addition, to ensure that Internet-based TRS users have functionally
equivalent access to emergency services, the Order requires providers to
obtain and maintain the physical location of their users - the same
obligation the FCC has imposed on interconnected voice over IP providers
- and to automatically route emergency calls from Internet-based TRS
users to the appropriate emergency services authorities using such
information. The Order also directs Internet-based TRS providers to
notify their users of these changes. Providers of Internet-based TRS
must comply with the Order's requirements no later than December 31,
2008.
In an accompanying Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the FCC sought
additional comment on related implementation issues, including, for
example, the potential application of anti-slamming protections to
protect relay consumers, and whether and to what extent the customer
proprietary network information (CPNI) rules should apply to TRS
providers.
US Department of Labor
Relief Report: Iowa Disability Program Navigators (DPNs)
Iowa DPNs, assisted by two Wisconsin DPNs, addressed the identification
and stabilization of Iowa residents with disabilities impacted by the
floods. The DPN deployment plan enhances the relief efforts of all Iowa
agencies through various strategies, including the implementation of a
$17 million DOL National Emergency Grant, in coordination with FEMA and
the American Red Cross.
Deploying the DPNs as first-line responders to assist people with
disabilities to obtain on the-ground services, followed by connecting
them back to/linking them with the workforce investment system to
promote stability and economic self-sufficiency has proven to be an
effective model during the Gulfport Hurricanes and again during the
recent Iowa flooding. The level of collaboration and successful
outcomes are impressive.
There was a two-week deployment operating simultaneously in three areas:
1) Waterloo/Cedar Falls; 2) Cedar Rapids/Iowa City; and 3) Quad Cities,
Burlington. In each of the three areas, there is team consisting of an
Iowa DPN and a Wisconsin DPN. This ensures that at least one DPN on
each team was part of the DPN Gulf Coast Hurricane relief and recovery
effort.
Recently Released Resources
Disaster Information Management Research Center (DIMRC)
The National Library of Medicine has created the DIMRC to aid in the
nation's disaster management efforts by providing information as part of
the Federal effort to help prepare, respond to, recover from, and
mitigate the adverse health effects of disasters in conjunction with
Federal, State, local government, private organizations, and local
communities. To learn more, visit http://sis.nlm.nih.gov/dimrc.html.
ShakeOut Scenario Prepares California for Disaster
A 7.8 magnitude Southern Californian earthquake - about the same as the
recent Sichuan, China quake - would kill 1,800 people, injure 50,000 and
wreak about $200 billion in damage, according to ShakeOut Scenario, a
joint study by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the California
Geological Survey. The report, which was presented to Congress May 22,
is the result of the collaboration of more than 300 scientists,
engineers, and experts from other disciplines, according to a USGS
statement.
To create the Scenario, geologists determined potential motion along the
part of the San Andreas Fault with the greatest risk of rupture.
Seismologists and computer scientists then modeled ground shaking.
Engineers and building professionals used the models to estimate damage
to the built environment, while social scientists evaluated emergency
response, casualties, and the impact on economy and society. The
analysis is the most comprehensive look at what a major Southern
California earthquake could mean and is the framework for "Golden
Guardian '08" - California's largest earthquake preparedness drill, set
for November 13, 2008. California has more than a 99 percent chance of
registering a magnitude 6.7 or larger earthquake, and a 46 percent
chance of a 7.5 or larger, within the next 30 years, according to USGS
modeling study released in April. See the modeling study at
http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2007/1437/. For a copy of the full ShakeOut
report, visit the ShakeOut Scenario page on the USGS Web site at
http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2008/1150.
Building a Disaster Resilient Community
The United Nation International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR)
has published Building Disaster Resistant Communities: Good Practices &
Lessons Learned. This publication is the result of joint efforts of the
emerging Global Network of NGOs for disaster risk reduction. The
publication showcases the essential roles played by NGOs in addressing
disaster risks at the local community level and is aimed to stimulate
more interest in the subject from donors, policy makers and other
stakeholders. For a copy of the report, go to
http://www.unisdr.org/eng/about_isdr/isdr-publications/06-ngos-good-prac
tices/ngos-good-practices.pdf.
Upcoming Events
Sept. 18, 2008
Summit on Pandemic Preparedness:
Enhancing Communications Response for Health Care and First Responders
Federal Communications Commission
Washington, DC
The summit will focus on communications and coordination between the
health care sector, first responders, government and the communications
industry in preparation for a pandemic. The panel discussions will also
highlight ways that communications may be expanded and enhanced in
response to a pandemic and how the communications industry will serve an
instrumental role in such a response.
For more information, go to http://www.fcc.gov/pshs/summits/.
Sept. 24, 2008
Post Disaster Safety Evaluations Training Workshop
Hyatt Regency Tech Center
Denver, CO
This workshop is offered in cooperation with California Office of
Emergency Services (OES) and Applied Technology Council (ATC). The
workshop will focus on ATC materials, including ATC-20: Procedures for
Post-earthquake Safety Evaluation of Buildings and ATC-45: Safety
Evaluation of Buildings After Wind Storms and Floods. The procedures
were developed to evaluate the safety of buildings and other
infrastructure systems after earthquakes, winds, floods, and fire. The
procedures and guidelines are written specifically for volunteer
engineers, as well as building inspectors and municipal engineers, and
other professionals who would be required to make on-the-spot
evaluations and decisions regarding the continued entry, use, operation,
and occupancy of damaged buildings and other facilities. Please note
the registration deadline of Sept. 5, 2008.
For more information, go to http://ciasce.asce.org/Denver2008.html.
Sept. 24, 2008
EMPOWERing Preparedness: An in depth discussion of the current state of
preparedness and what the future may hold
Emergency Management Professional Organization for Women's
Enrichment(tm) (EMPOWER)
The George Washington University
Washington, DC
A distinguished panel will present their insights and experiences in
this field, the skills that helped them to achieve success, and their
thoughts on the future of preparedness. E-Mail for registration
details: [log in to unmask]
Oct. 7, 2008
The Science of Communications: Connecting Researchers & Practitioners
A workshop for risk and crisis communicators
Sheraton Waikiki Hotel, Honolulu, Hawaii
What actually happens in someone's mind when they have to evacuate a
burning building, are told to shelter in place while authorities check
out a suspicious package, or hear rumor of a dangerous chemical or
biological agent release? What triggers the 'fight or flight' response?
Whom do they listen to in an emergency situation? How do they react in a
true crisis? This workshop will bring researchers and practitioners
together to discuss the science behind how people react to
communications in high risk and crisis situations. The U.S. Department
of Homeland Security's Science & Technology Directorate has supported
studies at universities, laboratories and industry to examine how people
react to worrisome messages, news and in crisis situations. The National
Association of Government Communicators, with technical support from
DHS, is offering a full-day workshop, held in conjunction with the
Asia-Pacific Homeland Security Summit & Exposition, to focus on the
science behind people's reactions, how communicators can evaluate the
effectiveness of what they say and how they say it, and how to reach
people who may be in panic mode. This workshop is being held in
conjunction with the 2008 Asia-Pacific Homeland Security Summit &
Exposition <http://hngvso.org/savethedate.asp> , Oct. 8-10, 2008.
For more information, go to
http://www.nagconline.org/AboutNAGC/Docs/ScienceofCommunicationsAgenda07
1808.pdf
Oct. 8-9, 2008
Emergency Preparedness, Response & Recovery Conference
Homeland Defense Journal Training
New Orleans, LA
The Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery Conference will cover
all aspects of emergency management planning and response for
communities, agencies and organizations. This conference will bring
together national, state and local experts and practitioners to discuss
the full spectrum of a disaster and the impact on a community or an
organization. Attendees will hear about the meticulous planning that
must occur prior to any emergency, as well as the coordinated efforts
during and after disaster strikes. Attendees will learn new techniques
and the comprehensive and systematic actions related to restoring,
repairing and renewing the key aspects of ordinary economic,
infrastructural, psychological, institutional and material life
following an emergency.
For more information, go to:
http://www.homelanddefensejournal.com/hdl/Emergency-Preparedness-Respons
e-Recovery.html.
Oct. 9, 2008
Webinar: The Big 7 Pandemic-Planning Mistakes
University of Minnesota
12:00-1:30 p.m. Eastern time
The webinar features two internationally respected authorities in
preparedness and risk communication, who will combine their years of
expertise and integrity to equip you with the definitive "need-to-know"
information in a lively interactive webinar. Widely known for their
candor, vision, and drive for results, Michael T. Osterholm, PhD, MPH,
and Peter M. Sandman, PhD, will fortify you with insights, energy, and
real-world action steps.
For more information, go to
http://online.krm.com/iebms/coe/coe_p2_details.aspx?oc=10&cc=00279763&ev
entid=13937.
Oct. 13-16, 2008
California Emergency Services Association (CESA) 2008 Annual Conference
"Adventures in Emergency Management: The Quest for Success"
Hilton Palm Springs Resort
Palm Springs, CA
The California Emergency Services Association (CESA) 2008 Annual
Conference will focus on best practices and lessons learned from actual
emergencies, with an emphasis on practical applications.
For more information, go to
http://www.cesa.net/conferences.cfm?color=st.
Oct. 27-28, 2008
Altered Standards of Care & Surge Capacity Conference:
Mass Casualty Management in Times of Crisis
Washington, DC
This conference will bring together an influential gathering of medical
and public health leaders to teach preparedness planners at the federal,
state, regional, community, and health systems levels how to plan and
support surge capacity in healthcare systems and develop altered
standards of care to meet mass casualty needs during all-hazard and
hazard-specific emergencies. At this conference, best practices for
preparedness will be highlighted for disasters, acts of terrorism, and
pandemic diseases.
For more information, go to
http://www.governmenthorizons.org/SurgeCapacityConference/.
Nov. 12-14, 2008
Los Angeles International Earthquake Conference
Omni Hotel, Los Angeles, CA
The conference will bring together the world's leading authorities in
seismic safety and disaster preparation and recovery. Exchange ideas and
identify best practices with public officials, academics and emergency
planners from around the world. Key goals include developing policy
recommendations for future legislation that will improve preparedness,
response and the ability to quickly rebound from major earthquakes. The
conference is part of the Great Southern California ShakeOut, which will
feature the largest earthquake drill in U.S. history. The conference
will be presented in partnership with the Earthquakes in Megacities
Initiative (EMI), an international, not-for-profit, scientific
organization that works with several megacities and metropolises in the
world to reduce disaster risk.
For more information, go to
http://iec.lacity.org/html/registration.html.
November 15-20, 2008
IAEM 56th Annual Conference & EMEX 2008 "Putting a New Spin on Emergency
Management"
Kansas City (Overland Park), Kansas
The IAEM Annual Conference provides a forum for current trends and
topics, information about the latest tools and technology in emergency
management and homeland security, and advances IAEM committee work.
Sessions encourage stakeholders at all levels of government, the private
sector, public health and related professions to exchange ideas on
collaborating to protect lives and property from disaster.
For more information, see http://www.iaem.com/events/annual/intro.htm.
Feb. 3-4, 2009
Workshop: Emergency Preparedness for Persons with Disabilities and
Special Needs
Kellogg Conference Hotel, Washington, DC
The ANSI-HSSP, in collaboration with the National Organization on
Disability (NOD) Emergency Preparedness Initiative (EPI) and the NFPA
Disability Access Review and Advisory Committee (DARAC), is launching a
new Workshop to examine existing and/or needed standards for Emergency
Preparedness for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs. This is
an issue that has been raised in many of the previous ANSI-HSSP
Workshops and Plenary meetings, leading to the decision to have a
focused Workshop devoted entirely to this important subject area. This
kick-off event will consist of a targeted group of experts, including
the members of DARAC and those involved with the NOD EPI, working to
identify what standards currently exist and in what areas new standards
need to be developed, followed by actionable recommendations for the
timely development of standards in the identified needs areas. Any
ANSI-HSSP members who are interested in participating in this new
Workshop, or have suggestions on individuals/organizations that should
be extended an invite, are encouraged to contact Matt Deane,
[log in to unmask], at your earliest convenience.
Join the ICC Listserv!
The Interagency Coordinating Council on Emergency Preparedness and
Individuals with Disabilities (ICC) has created a listserv. Please join
our listserv to receive the ICC's Monthly Updates and access other
information pertinent to emergency preparedness and individuals with
disabilities.
To join, see
http://listserv.access.gpo.gov/archives/icc-dispreppubs-l.html or go to
http://listserv.access.gpo.gov/ <http://listserv.access.gpo.gov/> and
click "Online Mailing List Archives," then select "ICC-DISPREPPUBS-L
<http://listserv.access.gpo.gov/archives/icc-dispreppubs-l.html> " and
complete the subscription form.
For more information about the ICC, see www.disabilitypreparedness.gov
<http://www.disabilitypreparedness.gov/> .
About the Interagency Coordinating Council on Emergency Preparedness and
Individuals with Disabilities
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office for Civil Rights and
Civil Liberties oversees the implementation of Executive Order 13347,
Individuals with Disabilities in Emergency Preparedness, which was
signed by President Bush in July 2004. This Executive Order is designed
to ensure the safety and security of individuals with disabilities in
all-hazard emergency and disaster situations. To this end, the
Executive Order created an Interagency Coordinating Council (ICC) on
Emergency Preparedness and Individuals with Disabilities. The ICC is
comprised of senior leadership from more than 25 Federal departments and
agencies. Its mission is to ensure that people with disabilities and
their specific needs are fully integrated into all aspects of our
nation's emergency management system; including mitigation,
preparedness, response, and recovery. The Secretary of Homeland
Security is the Chair of the ICC, and he has delegated that role to Mr.
Daniel Sutherland, the DHS Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties.
The Council has concentrated its work in nine major areas:
(1) Emergency Communications; (6)
Housing;
(2) Emergency Preparedness in the Workplace; (7)
Nongovernmental Outreach
(3) Emergency Transportation; (8)
Research; and
(4) Health and Human Services; (9)
State, Local, and Tribal Government Outreach
(5) Homeland Security Policy and Operations;
For more information about the ICC, see www.disabilitypreparedness.gov
<http://www.disabilitypreparedness.gov/> .
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