Establish Guidelines for Response During Storms and High Winds

One of the most difficult decisions for a chief officer when confronting hurricane situations is the determination to halt emergency response. It is the culture and nature of the emergency services organizations to go into any storm in order to save the lives of those they serve, even if it means sacrificing themselves.

However, responding at the height of a major storm risks the safety of the emergency services personnel, the infrastructure critical for sustaining long-term response and recovery efforts, and even the near- and long-term safety of citizens they mean to protect. Sustained winds or significant gusts can cause emergency vehicles to be pushed off the roadways or into oncoming traffic or cause vehicles to overturn. When winds reach a certain force, debris becomes a lethal weapon that can cause decapitation, penetrate clothing and protective gear or crush a person, causing significant injuries or even death.

Your organization operates in an area where hurricanes are likely to occur.  During the recent Risk Control survey, it was noted that while there are some operational guidelines in place, specific wind speed response guidelines have not been established.

We recommend that maximum wind speed response restrictions are set to determine a maximum wind speed at which you will cease responding to calls for service.  Personnel and apparatus safety should be primary considerations. 

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