From Summit Mayor Elizabeth Fagan, MD:
My update today will be written rather than a video. I would like to share some information on the ongoing training initiatives that are undertaken by the City's Office of Emergency Management (OEM). The training is a crucial part of the city's commitment to ensuring public safety and preparedness.
The Summit Emergency Management Team, of which I am a member and one of the more than 20 active participants, convenes at least quarterly, and often monthly, to engage in comprehensive training programs. These sessions include review of FEMA course material on incident command and response, and table-top exercises designed to simulate real-world scenarios. Such exercises are critical in allowing police, fire, EMS, and other emergency services to effectively plan and allocate resources for a range of emergency situations. It also allows our public information team to establish a strategy for communications and tactical messaging.
The collaborative nature of these training sessions extends beyond immediate emergency services. They incorporate key community stakeholders such as schools, hospitals, some of our larger corporate neighbors, as well as county and state entities. This broad participation underscores the city's holistic approach to emergency management and readiness.
Additionally, members of the Common Council have received training on how the OEM functions. Current sessions were specifically tailored for officials, ensuring they are well-versed in the emergency management process and the vital communication channels involved. It is a pivotal step in guaranteeing that all layers of the city's governance are aligned and prepared for any potential emergencies.
I hope this summary helps you to better understand our city’s prioritization of safety and preparedness. I commend the Emergency Management Team for its dedication and commitment to maintaining and enhancing these essential preparedness measures, and I assure you that I look forward to being an active and contributing member on it.